Swindon & Wiltshire Pride 2012

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The 5th Swindon and Wiltshire Pride takes place on Saturday, 4 August in Old Town Gardens and Men’s Sexual Health will once again be there to support this hugely important celebration of our town's diversity. The team will be on hand providing up to date sexual health advice and signposting, free safe sex packs, a wide range of relevant leaflets on health matters of interest to young and old, and a selection of goodies to take away.

Most importantly, Men’s Sexual Health has been able to expand the service they have provided at previous Pride events, by teaming up with staff from the Sexual Health Department at Great Western Hospital and will be offering, for the first year ever, free, on site, confidential Gonorrhea screening, in addition to the Chlamydia screening offered for the last 3 years.  Anyone who screens for either or both (recommended) of these sexually transmitted infections will be able to choose a free gift for taking part.  Screening is offered to both men and women (don't be fooled by the name Men's Sexual Health; they work with men and their partner's, regardless of their sex).

 Many people are aware that Chlamydia is the most widespread Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) in the country, and a leading cause of infertility if left untreated.  It most commonly effects the 16-24 year old age group and is commonly known as 'The Silent STI' because many people who have it have no symptoms and thus do not get tested and treated.  Despite all the knowledge out there, STI's still are on the rise in all age groups.  It is a known fact that if a person has contracted Chlamydia they are at greater risk of contracting another STI, due to a weakened immune system, so, many cases of Gonorrhea 'piggybacking' on. Thus, this year at Pride, age is no barrier, and the staff from Men's Sexual Health and Great Western Hospital are bringing our screening tents out and welcoming everyone to come in for a test.  So,there's no point ducking the issue; for your peace of mind, visit the Men's Sexual Health pitch on Saturday for an informal health check and a chat, and have a happy Pride Day!

The Parade will start at 11.15am, then at midday the gardens will be open to the public, with it planning to end at around 10.30pm. It has recently been announced the headline act for the day will be international DJ Singer Basshunter performing all his well known tracks. For more information about the day please visit www.swindonpride.com

Published: 4th July 2012 by Matt (updated Thu 21st Jan)