The most recent statistics show that rates of Gonorrhoea and Syphilis are increasing in Trafford.

Gonorrhoea rates are up by 26.7%, with 228 diagnoses in the borough in 2023 compared with 180 in 2019. Syphilis is also on the rise with 33 new cases recorded in 2023, 17.9% more than in 2022.

Anybody can get an STI, but they do disproportionately affect gay, bi, and other men who have sex with men, and some ethnically diverse populations. So what do you need to know?

• Prevention is key! Condoms and lube don't just prevent pregnancy, they also protect against STIs and HIV, keeping you and your partners safer.
• STIs don't always have symptoms. Sometimes, the only way to know if you have an STI is to test. 
• STIs are treatable and in the UK, STI treatment is free for everybody on the NHS. 
• STI testing is free and confidential and you can test in a way which works for you - online, in person, at a clinic, with an appointment, or at a drop-in service. 

How can Trafford residents test?

Test with PaSH:

For folks within the black and ethnic minoritised communities, you can find testing and support from BHA for Equality at thebha.org.uk/gmtesting

For LGBTQ+ people and men who have sex with men, you can test with LGBT Foundation at lgbt.foundation/testing

Test Online:

Free postal tests for chlamydia and gonorrhoea are now available to over 25s in Trafford via SH:24

Test at a Sexual Health Clinic:

If you're in Trafford, your nearest Sexual Health Clinic is The Northern Sexual Health.