Sexual Health JSNA Findings
The purpose of this joint strategic needs assessment is to provide an evidence-based, data-informed overview of the sexual health needs of people in Wolverhampton. This report aims to provide information to public health professionals, commissioners, and providers to help shape future interventions, improve current services and enable system partners to work collaboratively in line with the needs of the local population.
The sexual health status of a population is closely linked to its demographic profile. Disparities in sexual health outcomes are influenced by factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, education, geography, cultural and social norms, marital status, and immigration status. These disparities between population groups often stem from individual, cultural, social, and economic barriers that hinder access to appropriate care, widening health inequalities. Young adults aged 15-24 years, individuals of Black ethnicity, and men who have sex with men (MSM) experience the highest rates of STIs. Additionally, higher levels of deprivation, which often intersects with vulnerabilities like mental or physical illness, disability, lack of support or education, cultural barriers, and experiences of abuse or stigma, further contributes to poor sexual health outcomes. Ensuring equitable access to sexual health services across all population groups is essential to reducing these disparities.
The needs assessment identified the following overarching recommendations:
- Establish a multi-agency Sexual Health Partnership to oversee the implementation of needs assessment recommendations.
- Form a task and finish group to implement recommendations from the Health-Related Behaviour Survey.
- Outreach work to promote sexual health, focusing on high-risk groups and those with lower access.
- Develop and review pathways for accessing sexual healthcare, annually, especially for highrisk and vulnerable groups like children leaving care, sex workers, and those experiencing homelessness or substance misuse.
- Ensure comprehensive staff training on service provision, cultural sensitivities, and the needs of vulnerable groups.
- Raise awareness of Embrace and enhance its visibility by ensuring its name and services are clearly communicated in all related health communications, especially at local sexual health clinics.