Wiltshire launches five‑year plan to transform sexual health services

People across Wiltshire will find it easier to access sexual health support, information and advice under a new five-year strategy launched by Wiltshire Council.

The Sexual Health Strategy (2026–2031) focuses on helping residents feel confident, informed and supported at every stage of life – whether that is accessing contraception, getting tested, or simply knowing where to go for help.

The plan has been developed through the Sexual Health Partnership Board (SHPB), bringing together Wiltshire Council’s Public Health team with local healthcare, community and voluntary organisations, alongside residents and frontline staff who have shared their experiences and ideas.

At its heart is a commitment to make services simpler to access, better understood and more inclusive – especially for people who currently face the biggest barriers.

Across Wiltshire, people can face challenges such as travelling long distances to services, difficulty booking appointments, or not knowing what support is available. The strategy aims to remove those obstacles, so that getting help feels straightforward and stigma-free.

It also recognises that some groups, particularly young people, those living in more deprived areas and some minority communities, experience poorer sexual health outcomes and need more tailored support.

Councillor Clare Cape, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Co‑ordination with the NHS, said: “This strategy is about people’s everyday lives. It’s about making sure that no matter who you are or where you live in Wiltshire, you can get the advice, care and support you need without barriers or judgement. We’ve listened to residents and staff, and what they’ve told us is clear. Services need to be easier to find, easier to use and designed around real lives. This strategy is a big step towards making that happen.

“Good sexual health is about much more than services. It’s about people feeling informed, confident and supported in their everyday lives. This strategy is about making that a reality for everyone and ensuring people can get the help they need, when they need it.”

A key focus will be improving awareness, so people know what help is available and how to access it quickly and confidently. The strategy also commits to strengthening education and support, helping people make informed choices about their health and relationships.

Young people are a priority, with those aged 15–24 accounting for almost half of new sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnoses locally, highlighting the importance of early support, education and prevention.

The strategy also puts strong emphasis on partnership working, bringing together services across health, education and community organisations to create a more joined‑up, supportive system.

Over the next five years, partners across Wiltshire will work together to deliver practical improvements, from expanding access options and improving online services to strengthening education and outreach in communities.

You can view the strategy here - Wiltshire_Sexual_Health_Strategy_2026_-_2031.pdf