November 19th is International Men’s Day. David from our team shares what he is most proud about from his work within sexual health services, and what he’d like local men to know about sexual health.
David, Specialist Sexual Health Nurse
What achievement in your role are you most proud of?
I am most proud of what I have achieved in my 10 years of sauna outreach work. From often having no sauna users accessing our service in outreach to being constantly busy with testing, enquiries, giving information and advice. We offer a safe relaxed environment for people to feel empowered to look after their sexual health and in turn the health of others, we have enabled service users to not just gain access to main clinic services but feel comfortable and able to do so. Giving opportunity to talk about PrEP and vaccines that some people would have otherwise not been aware of.
I truly believe this service as made a massive difference and positive impact on the MSM community of Leicester.
Over the years guys have come to me and felt able to tell me about their worries and concerns, dealing with their double lives and their struggles with no one knowing who they really are.
And I think giving people this opportunity is so important for their mental health and wellbeing,
What would you like local men to know about sexual health?
That our services are out there and easy to access; it’s free and it’s a safe non-judgmental space. It is just part of looking after yourself like going to the doctors or the dentist. And to empower yourself by knowing about it. When to test, how often to test, and what is available to keep you as safe and well as possible