Sexual health service branded as 'inadequate'

NEWCASTLE'S sexual health service has been branded inadequate by inspectors and put into special measures.

- By DANIEL HOLLAND

Newcastle sexual health services based at Hadrian House

In a damning report published today about the Solutions 4 Health Newcastle clinic, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) says it found breaches of legal regulations on safeguarding, staffing, the condition and accessibility of its premises and equipment, and a lack of governance and oversight.

Concerned staff at the centre reported an “oppressive and bullying culture” and shortcomings in infection prevention, while the healthcare watchdog also criticised a shortage of appointments and delays in test results and treatment.

The CQC verdict comes just weeks after it was announced that Newcastle City Council had agreed a “mutual termination” of Solutions 4 Health's contract, only two years after the private company took over the running of the sexual health service from the NHS.

A procurement process for a new provider was launched last week and it is hoped an operator will be announced in January.

At the time of the 2023 transfer, furious staff had warned the move risked a rise in unintended pregnancies and leaving more sexually transmitted infections untreated.