All SHiP services, appointments and locations are young person friendly and completely free-of-charge. We also offer exclusive clinic sessions for young people aged 13- 24 on Thursdays at The Zone.
We do not disclose anything about your visit or any personal information to your parents, your GP or anyone else, without your permission. If we feel you or someone else is at risk of serious harm or danger, we may have to share this information, but we will always aim to discuss it with you first.
All sessions at SHiP@Derriford and SHiP@Zone are appointment-only (there is no walk-in). We will assess you by telephone first. You can book a telephone consultation with a nurse or doctor by calling our main number 01752 431124. We will call you back on an agreed day to discuss your needs and, if required, book you a face-to-face appointment at your preferred location; either SHiP@Cumberland Centre, SHiP@Derriford Hospital or SHiP@Zone.
Getting there
The Zone
The Zone is a specialist young person hub on Union Street in Plymouth city centre, which offers a wide range of information, advice, counselling and support services to young people.
SHiP services offered at the zone include:
- Advice and information
- Different methods of contraception – pills, patches, contraceptive injections, IUS & IUD (coils), implants and vaginal rings
- Pregnancy testing
- Emergency contraception (emergency contraception tablets, help to arrange a post coital IUD fitted)
- Screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Condoms
- Support to access other services, such as abortion services, if necessary
FAQ
I’m under 16, will you tell anyone?
If you are under 16, you can get contraception and sexual health advice and testing confidentially. This means that we will not tell your parents, guardians, carers, GP or social worker unless we feel you or others are at risk of serious harm.
Is everything free?
Yes, your consultation and any procedures, tests or medications you need are completely free of charge.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Due to COVID-19 regulations we are currently asking everyone to come alone. However, if you are under 16, have a mental health issue or anything else which makes coming to your appointment alone really difficult for you, let us know. If you need additional support, you may be able to bring a family member or youth/social worker with you. Please let us know during your telephone consultation.
Will you send letters to my house?
Not routinely. Our usual way of communicating with you is by text (SMS) or calling your mobile. If you prefer a different way of us contacting you, please discuss with us.
Will I have to be physically examined?
You can normally be tested for STI’s by doing a swab or urine sample yourself. But if you have symptoms, the nurse or doctor may suggest that they examine you with your consent.
Can I order a home STI test kit?
Yes, we can send a test kit out to you. It will not say anywhere on the external packaging what it is and where it has come from.
*If you are under 16, we cannot send out kits. Please call us on 01752 431124 to book a telephone consultation.
What questions will I be asked?
The nurse or doctor will ask you questions about your health, your sexual history and your personal life. Please try and answer as honestly as possible so we can help you as best as we can.
My boyfriend says we don’t need contraception as he uses the ‘pulling out’ method. Is this a good idea?
NO! Pulling out or the withdrawal method is not a good way to avoid pregnancy. The penis can leak sperm before ejaculation, and it also takes a lot of self-control to pull out in time. Many women get pregnant using this method.
What happens if my test results show an infection?
One of our health professionals will give you call (providing you have given us permission to do this) to discuss your condition and treatment available to you.
Do I need to tell my partner if my results show an infection?
If your results show an infection, we will explain whether you need to contact anyone, and discuss how we can help with this.
I had unprotected sex and I’m scared I could get pregnant, what shall I do?
Please call us ASAP. We offer emergency contraception as a pill and as a post-coital IUD (intrauterine device, also called a coil [hyperlink to https://yourship.uk/contraception-pregnancy/iud-ius/]. You can also obtain the emergency contraception pill from your local pharmacy. We will also discuss testing for STIs with you.
I feel really embarrassed talking about sex
We understand that talking about sex and personal information can be difficult for some people, but there is no need to feel embarrassed. Our specialist nurses and doctors are very used to talking about all kinds of sexual matters and will have heard/seen it all before! Our staff are all very non-judgemental and will always respect your dignity.