The Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) has urged the Government to commit to a new ten-year sexual and reproductive health strategy after the last decade of ‘real-terms cuts’.
A new report, titled Blueprint for the Future, sets out the case for long-term investment in funding and resources to meet the continuing rise in demand for sexual and reproductive health services.
The report also outlines what it describes as ‘stark differences’ in sexual health across the population, with under 25s, gay and bisexual men and men who have sex with men, and black and minority ethnic groups often disproportionately affected.
Greg Fell, president of the ADPH, said that the last decade of cuts to the public health grant during a period that saw a rise in demand for sexual and reproductive health services was ‘untenable’.
He added: ‘The Government must commit to developing this vital public health service so we can provide advice and treatment to everyone, regardless of their background.’
