Sexual health
How to read the stories

Sexual health

There are lots of places that offer tests and treatment for STIs. All over the UK there are clinics called genitourinary medicine clinics or sexual health services that offer free testing and free treatment. Some GPs also offer testing. The way that services are organised is different all over the country. You could ask your own GP surgery what services there are in your area or look on the internet for a local sexual health or genitourinary medicine clinic.

There is a website where you can look up your nearest clinics: www.bashh.org. You will find details of how to contact the clinics on that website. Usually you will need to make an appointment at the clinic, but if you think your problem is urgent you should say so and they will help you to get the care you need. Some clinics have walk-in sessions where you do not need to make an appointment. If you think you or someone you are helping will need extra time and assistance, then you should tell the clinic about it when you contact them and make a specific appointment.

How to read the stories

There is no right or wrong way to read the stories.

Some people are not used to reading stories. Start at the beginning and read the story in each picture. Encourage the reader to move through the pages at their own pace.
Encourage the person to tell the story in their own words. You will discover what they think is happening, what they already know, and how they feel. If you are using the pictures to help explain a procedure to someone, you may need to describe or clarify the actions being shown in each picture to help them understand. Try not to challenge the reader(s) or suggest their ideas are wrong.
Some pictures may be more difficult to understand. It can help to prompt the people you are supporting, for example:
•   Who do you think that is?
•   What is happening?
•   How is he or she feeling?
•   Do you feel like that? Has it happened to you/ your friend/ your family?
Allow people enough time to follow the pictures at their own pace. Allow time for discussion of each picture.
Some people may benefit from reading the larger story from which the extract has been taken. This will allow them to explore their feelings and experiences in more depth. To buy the complete book, follow the link to the bookshop that appears at the end of the story.