Health officials in Darlington are reminding young people about safer sex as thousands of students prepare for the new academic year. The message coincides with World Sexual Health Day and comes as latest figures show sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain common among teenagers and young adults across the region.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recorded 14,845 STI diagnoses in the North East, with people aged 15 to 24 accounting for half of all new diagnoses. Health experts say the start of college and university term is an important moment to encourage young people to look after their sexual health, particularly as many STIs produce no obvious symptoms.
What young people are being urged to do
Residents are being encouraged to use condoms, get tested regularly, and seek confidential advice if they have had sex without a condom, have a new partner, or are worried about their sexual health.
Dr Alex Kent, medical director at NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, said: "Starting or returning to college or university is an exciting time, when many young people are meeting new people and enjoying greater independence. Many sexually transmitted infections don't have any symptoms, so you can't always tell if you or your partner has one. Using condoms and getting tested regularly are two of the simplest ways to protect yourself and the people you have sex with."
Dr Kent added that sexual health services are free and confidential, and people should not feel embarrassed about asking for advice, accessing condoms, or having a test.
Local increase in sexual health clinic visits
The push forms part of 'The Elephant in the Room', a regional campaign launched six months ago by the NHS Integrated Care Board and local authorities across the North East and Cumbria to encourage young people to talk more openly about sexual health.
In Darlington, the campaign has shown measurable results. Sexual health clinic attendances increased by 11%, rising from 1,636 visits between March and June 2025 to 1,815 during the same period in 2026. Online requests for free condoms increased by 48% between April–June 2025 and the same period in 2026, with a 100% increase in requests from people aged 16–24.
Since its launch, around 43,000 people have visited the campaign website, and early data shows more people are seeking support. Lorraine Hughes, director of public health at Darlington Borough Council and regional lead for sexual health, said the start of the academic year is "a good time to remind everyone that looking after your sexual health" is important.
