Essex Sexual Health Service, commissioned by Essex County Council and delivered by Provide Community, has launched the Essex Sexual Health Service Umbrella Project, a confidential, non‑judgemental service designed to support individuals across Essex who sell sex or work in the adult industry.

The project offers a safe and inclusive space for people aged 18 and over, of any gender, who sell sexual services of any kind, regardless of immigration status. Through the distribution of health resources, direct outreach, and online support channels that enable Fastrack into Essex Sexual Health Service, the Umbrella Project is committed to improving access to essential sexual health services.

This service is available to residents across Essex but excludes Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock, which are covered by separate local services.

The Umbrella Project provides free, confidential help including:

• Fastrack into Sexual health advice, testing and contraception
• Access to free condoms, lubricant and other resources from community project partners across Essex
• Tailored online support channels that enable advice and support through the app telegram https://t.me/eshsumbrella
• Sign up to the Essex Sexual Health Service umbrella Project Telegram Channel to receive regular updates and information around sexual health https://t.me/eshsumbrellaproject
• Guidance to help navigate local health services

Sophie Milner, Service Manager, Health Promotion and Education at Essex Sexual Health Service, said:

“Many individuals face significant stigma and barriers when accessing healthcare, which Essex Sexual Health Service is actively working to overcome. In direct response to these challenges, we created the Umbrell Project in close collaboration with sex workers in Essex.

“By listening to their voices and neds, we designed a service that provides a non-judgemental environment, allowing individuals to disclose their profession safely and confidently.

“Everyone deserves to be treated with trust, respect and support, and this project is a powerful step toward fulfilling our mission: delivering safe, supportive, and accessible sexual health services to everyone in Essex without compromise.”

By offering discreet resources and direct outreach, the Essex Sexual Health Service Umbrella Project ensures that anyone working within the adult industry can make informed choices about their health and wellbeing.

For more information about the Essex Sexual Health Service Umbrella Project or to access confidential support, visit www.essexsexualhealthservice.org.uk/umbrella or contact the Essex Sexual Health Service helpline at 0300 003 1212.