Decision details

The Board is asked to discuss the report and approve the recommendations contained within

Dr Jeff Lake briefed the Board about the importance of expanding the provision of sexual health services in primary care, pharmacy and community settings to offer further accessible venues to the population in Barnet.

Chris Miller, Independent Chairman of the Adults and Children’s Safeguarding Boards, queried the provision of services to support victims of sexual assault. Dr Lake stated that in light of a review of local mechanisms for onward referral, a local strategy is being developed for victims of sexual assault and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

Action: Public Health to develop and incorporate a local strategy for supporting victims of sexual assault and FGM as part of the Sexual Health Strategy.

Councillor Sachin Rajput asked what could be done to encourage a greater level of HIV testing among at risk population groups. Dr Lake noted that Public Health (Harrow and Barnet) will conduct an option appraisal for HIV testing for high risk populations in the Borough including the provision of home testing facilities.

Dr Debbie Frost advised that resources would need to be made available in order to shift provision in to Primary Care and Community Services.

The Chairman welcomed Lead Clinician, Sarah Pillai (CLCH) to join the discussion. Sarah Pillai expressed interest in working in partnership with the Public Health team to consider a broader range of interventions, such as social marketing to address concerns for young people and help develop a comprehensive strategy accordingly.

RESOLVED that

1. The Health and Well-Being Board agrees that the Public Health team should participate in collaborative commissioning of Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) services.
   
   
2. The Board agrees the plans to expand the provision of sexual health and reproductive services in primary care and community settings, especially in ‘hotspot’ and deprived areas of the Borough to facilitate the shift from hospital based services.
   
   
3. The Board agrees the plans to review current services, increase the uptake of testing for HIV and Chlamydia among high risk groups and introduce an awareness and signposting campaign.
   
   
4. Additional recommendation: The Health and Well-Being Board agrees that the Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020 should be aligned to addressing FGM and sexual exploitation with the Safer Communities Board and LSCB.