A new public health campaign, Think…Chlamydia, supported by Magenta Living, has launched across Wirral to encourage young people to take greater responsibility for their sexual health during the festive season.
Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) among young people. As it often presents with no symptoms, many people do not realise they have it, increasing the risk of long-term health complications if left untreated.
The campaign aims to raise awareness and increase testing rates among 15–24 year olds, offering access through ourPlace, Wirral’s Sexual Health Service for young people and free, confidential online postal test kits (available to those aged 16+).
Local young people have played a key role in co-creating the campaign, including voicing the radio adverts currently airing on In Demand Radio. The campaign also features on social media platforms, as well as bus stops and railway stations across Wirral.
Running throughout the Christmas period and into the New Year, a time typically associated with higher risk-taking behaviours, the campaign ensures young people to have easy access to reliable information and testing. Testing is free, painless and confidential, and can be accessed via ourPlace, or by ordering a home test kit online (aged 16+) at www.sexualhealthwirral.nhs.uk
To help reduce anxiety about attending in person, young people can also watch a walkthrough video of the ourPlace clinic. Based at St Catherine’s Health Centre, the service offers a vibrant, welcoming and non-judgemental environment, with friendly staff available to answer any questions. Watch the video on YouTube.
Millie Williams, Service Development Coordinator at Sexual Health Wirral, said: “Our mission is simple, to empower young people across Wirral with the knowledge and confidence to protect their sexual health. We’re extremely grateful to Magenta Living for their support, which allows us to reach more young people with vital information, free testing opportunities and life-changing awareness. Together, we are building healthier, more informed and better supported communities. Our call to action is clear Think Chlamydia – Get Tested!”
Dr Jane Wilkinson, GP Champion for Sexual Health Wirral, added: “We want young people across Wirral to feel confident prioritising their sexual health. The ‘Think… Chlamydia!’ campaign, co-created with young people themselves, highlights just how quick and easy testing can be. With free, simple tests available via ourPlace and the Sexual Health Wirral website, there should be no barriers to staying safe this festive season and into the New Year.”
Rachel Bennett, Communities Director, Magenta Living said: “Magenta Living is proud to fund this campaign alongside our NHS partners to help young people in Wirral access clear information and free, confidential testing. When communities work together, we remove barriers and make it easier for young people to look after their health, this festive season and beyond.”
