Sexual health is still taboo but a clinic in Bury is encouraging people not only to talk about sex but to make it part of looking after their health.

The team at Abbey View Clinic deliver integrated Contraception and Sexual Health services – iCaSH Suffolk - and celebrated their first anniversary in the building recently.

Dr Comfort Momoh MBE, FGM Consultant and Public Health Specialist commended the team for their dedication before cutting the ribbon at the event. She said: “Sexual health is still a taboo for some, but this clinic is a testament to the team. You’ve created a safe and modern place for people to be able to talk about their experiences, receive the support and treatment they need and enable us, as professionals to give tools and information to empower.

“So congratulations to all who’ve been involved in the creation of Abbey View Clinic and delivering sexual health in Bury St Edmunds. Today we celebrate a team that is passionate for and committed to a service that continues to evolve.”

Staff and colleagues from commissioning bodies and partner organisations gathered at the iCaSH Suffolk hub, provided by Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust to celebrate the official opening.

All sexual health services based at West Suffolk Hospital, first moved to Blomfield House, Looms Lane in August 2015, before settling in the permanent bespoke home at Abbey View Clinic in February last year.

Allison Chaplin, Service Manager, iCaSH Suffolk said: “It has been a busy year for the team and since moving into Abbey View clinic we have seen over 8000 patients, we are pleased to be able to welcome patients into such a modern and welcoming clinic, and felt it was important to celebrate our first anniversary, and showcase the facilities and services we offer.”

Service users can contact 0300 123 3650 for appointments or visit www.icash.nhs.uk for more information.

iCaSH Suffolk continues to work with Terrence Higgins Trust, who will provide community outreach services including free condoms, Chlamydia screening and sexual health advice and signposting.

Photo:   Dr Comfort Momoh MBE, FGM Consultant and Public Health (left) and Mike Passfield, Head of iCaSH (right)