The Local Government Association (LGA) has called for a 10-year sexual health strategy as services face unprecedented pressure.
The Government was pressed into action following UK Health Security Agency figures revealing consultations at sexual health clinics reached 4.5m in 2024, up from 2.9m in 2013.
Cllr David Fothergill, chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board, said: ‘These statistics show that local sexual health services are grappling with significant increases in demand.
‘Without adequate investment, people will face growing barriers to accessing expert, timely care.
‘The Government must use next week’s Spending Review to boost funding for sexual health services in line with this sharp rise in need.
‘Councils have worked hard to promote regular testing and early detection, which are vital for preventing the spread of infections and improving public health outcomes.
‘Investing in sexual health services not only reduces long-term illness and unplanned pregnancies but also eases pressure on the NHS and enhances the wellbeing of our communities.’
Lee Peart is editor of Hemming Group’s Healthcare Management magazine.
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