Heat Health Alert: Services Continuing as Normal

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued a Red Heat Health Alert across many parts of England, including areas in which Provide Community services operate. We are working closely with our services to ensure we continue to provide safe, high-quality care for our patients while supporting the wellbeing of our […]
Why Are Some STIs More Stigmatised Than Others?

When people hear the words “sexually transmitted infection” (STI), reactions can vary depending on the condition being talked about. Some STIs, like chlamydia, are often discussed openly in sexual health campaigns and education. Others, like herpes or HIV, can still carry a huge amount of stigma and misunderstanding. But why? The truth is that stigma […]
Your Body, Your Choice: Why Conversations About Contraception Matter

Most people know about common contraception options like condoms or the pill, but fewer people talk about permanent contraception and who gets to make decisions about it. A recent news story has started important conversations online after a woman spent more than 10 years trying to access female sterilisation on the NHS. She said doctors repeatedly questioned […]
Understanding Pornography Addiction: When Viewing Becomes a Concern

Pornography is more accessible than ever before. With smartphones, social media, and online platforms available 24/7, many people are exposed to sexual content from a young age. For some, pornography may simply be something they occasionally view. But for others, it can begin to negatively affect their relationships, mental wellbeing, daily life, or ability to feel […]
What Is Queer Safer Sex?

Safer sex isn’t one-size-fits-all. For LGBTQ+ people, it can look different depending on bodies, partners, and types of sex, but the goal is the same: reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) while supporting comfort, confidence, and choice. Understanding the options available can help you make informed decisions about what works for you. What […]
What Does Ongoing Consent Actually Look Like?

Consent is often explained as a simple “yes” or “no” but in reality, it’s more than a one-time answer. Consent is an ongoing, active process that continues throughout any sexual experience. Understanding what this looks like in practice can help ensure that everyone feels safe, respected, and in control. Consent Is Ongoing Consent is not […]
Can You Use Lube With Condoms or Contraceptive Devices?

Short answer: yes and in many cases, it’s recommended. Using lubricant (lube) can improve comfort, reduce friction, and lower the risk of condoms breaking. However, not all lubes are compatible with all condoms or contraceptive devices, so it’s important to choose the right type. Why Use Lube? Lube helps reduce friction during sex, which can: […]
Provide Community publishes Social Value Report April 2024 to March 2026, highlighting £16.6million impact and £1.4million reinvested

Provide Community has published its Social Value Report April 2024 to March 2026, showcasing the organisation’s continued commitment to creating meaningful impact beyond health and social care delivery. As an employee-owned, Community Interest Company, social value is at the heart of everything Provide Community does. The Social Value Report April 2024 to March 2026 highlights […]
Welcome to our March Essex Sexual Health Newsletter!

Sign up to our quarterly newsletter and have the latest updates delivered straight to your inbox – click here At Suffolk Sexual Health Service, we have been incredibly busy since our last update, as always we have been promoting safe sex and supporting communities around Suffolk to access our services. Within this newsletter you will see […]
Welcome to the Suffolk Sexual Health newsletter!

We hope you are well and looking forward to getting into the festive spirit. Did you know that within the UK, September is the most common month for somebody to be born in? This is attributed to more conceptions happening around Christmas time nine months prior. This means that at Suffolk Sexual Health Service, we […]