Free STI self-sampling kits

STI self-sampling kits allow individuals to test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea in a private setting without attending a clinic.

Kits include everything needed to collect a sample and instructions on how to return it for testing.

They are designed to make testing more accessible for people who may find it difficult to attend traditional sexual health services.

We welcome applications from organisations supporting communities who may benefit from improved access to sexual health testing.

Priority may be given to organisations working with:

• Marginalised or deprived communities
• People experiencing homelessness
• People with drug or alcohol dependence
• People with severe mental illness
• Vulnerable migrants and victims of modern slavery
• People with learning disabilities
• Trans and gender-diverse people
• Other groups with identified barriers to accessing sexual health services

However, we encourage you to get in touch whatever type of organisation you work for.

Both types of kit are easy to use. Watch and share the videos below showing how the U Sample and V Swab kits are used.

Organisations joining the scheme must be able to:

• Provide service users with an STI self-sampling kit
• Offer brief guidance on kit use and return instructions
• Store kits safely and appropriately
• Promote relevant sexual health information and signposting
• Attend training where required
• Comply with the terms of the Service Level Agreement

Approved organisations will receive:

• Free STI self-sampling kits
• Guidance and training materials
• Promotional resources to support delivery
• Ongoing support from the Sexual Health Promotion Team
• Access to advice from the outreach team where needed

To join the STI Self-Sampling Kit scheme, organisations must register through the Sexual Health HUB.

As part of registration, you will be asked to:

• Provide details about your organisation
• Nominate a named lead
• Confirm manager approval
• Agree to the Service Level Agreement