Students at Liverpool universities are being warned about the dangers of sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) and binge drinking in a new safety campaign visiting local nightclubs and uni events.
The scheme is being launched by Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust – alongside Merseyside Police – to highlight the importance of staying safe from sexual infections, and also to offer advice about responsible drinking, looking after property, and how to stay safe when out in the city.
Staff from Liverpool Community Health’s Sexual Health Service, SAFE Place, will be distributing ‘survival packs’ containing health and safety tips at freshers’ fairs.
Popular student nightspots, including Medication, Aura and Garlands, will host chlamydia screening tests as part of the ‘Love is Infectious’ campaign.
Shelly Stoops, SAFE Place Manager for Liverpool Community Health, said: “Every September we see a significant increase in the number of students attending our sexual health clinics with concerns about sexually transmitted infections, looking for contraceptive advice, or with concerns about the possibility of pregnancy.
“We want new students to know how to stay safe and to enjoy their time at university, especially those who are moving away from home for the first time.
“We also want all students and young people across the city to know that they are not on their own. There is lots of support and advice available through our local NHS services, should they ever need it.”
Students will also be made aware of Liverpool’s BEAT city health centre, based on Hanover Street and David Lewis Street.
The new facility offers a variety of services, including an NHS Walk-In Centre and Abacus Sexual Health Clinic.