Hello, I’m Kevin
This is my story about going to the Sexual Health and Contraception service (SHAC)
When Kevin booked his appointment, he told the staff he has a learning disability.
They told Kevin they can:
- Give him easy read information
- Help him to fill out forms
- Find a quiet place to sit
- See him quicker
Kevin went to the appointment with a supporter
You can take someone with you to the appointment.
Kevin and his supporter parked in the accessible parking space at the front of the building.
Getting to the reception desk
Kevin went into the Outpatients Department and went straight ahead.
Kevin followed the sign to the Claude Nicol Centre and turned right.
Kevin went down the slope to the reception area.
The receptionist gave Kevin an Easy Read form and asked him if he needed help to fill out the form.
The receptionist asked Kevin what would make the appointment better for him, like waiting in a quiet place.
Kevin didn’t mind sitting in the main reception area.
If the main reception is too busy or noisy or bright for you, you can ask to wait in a quiet place.
Seeing the health adviser
The health adviser met Kevin and asked if he was happy for his carer to be in the room.
Kevin said he was happy for his carer to be in the room.
If you go with a carer, they can come in with you, come in for part of the appointment or wait outside.
It is your choice.
The health adviser asked Kevin about his communication needs.
Kevin showed the health advisor his communication book.
The health adviser told Kevin about Confidentiality.
They said they would not share his information unless they were worried about his safety.
The health adviser explained things to Kevin using Easy Read.
SHAC have an Easy Read Web Page: Brighton Sexual Health – Advice – Learning Disability
The health adviser explained they may do some tests:
- Urine
- Blood
- Swabs
If you have symptoms, a nurse or doctor may need to do an examination.
If you need contraception you may see a nurse for more tests:
- Weight
- Blood pressure
The health adviser explained to Kevin having tests is your choice.
You can choose not to do the tests or to come back another day for the tests or examinations.
They can test for Sexually Transmitted Infections including:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- Syphilis
- HIV
The Health Advisor asked Kevin to do a urine (wee) test.
The toilet at the clinic is accessible.
When Kevin had done the test he posted it through the window.
Kevin didn’t need any treatment today.
The staff might give you medicine or a prescription.
They may need to refer you to someone else.
The staff can also talk to you about sex and the different types of contraception.
The health adviser gave Kevin some condoms.
Some types of contraception they can give your are:
- Condoms
- Pill
- Coil
- Implant
- Injection
- Patch
How to contact SHAC:
Book an appointment
Tel: 01273 523388
SHAC East – Claude Nicol Centre
Outpatients Department
Royal Sussex County Hospital
Eastern Road, Brighton. BN2 5BE
Web: SHAC East
Walk in appointments
SHAC Central – Morley Street
Morley Street, Brighton. BN2 9RE
You may have to wait or come back later. Phone or check the website for clinic times.
Web: SHAC Central
Outreach support
If you are at risk of unplanned pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections and cannot access SHAC in person you can ask for outreach support from the clinic.
Tel: 01273 523388 option 2
Web: Outreach nursing
Thank you Kevin
A big thank you to Kevin for sharing his story.
This story was made with, Kevin and the Speak Out Link Group, Laura at the Sexual Health and Contraception Service and Jane, Learning Disability Health Facilitator.