Richmond Council is set to launch a joint procurement process for Integrated Sexual Health (ISH) services, partnering with Wandsworth, Merton, and Sutton councils. The new contract, commencing on 1 October 2026, aims to enhance sexual and reproductive health services across the four boroughs.
The decision was made during a meeting of the Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Committee on Monday, 15 September 2025, where members discussed the importance of accessible and efficient sexual health services for all residents. Councillor O'Shea raised concerns about low testing rates and relatively high teenage pregnancy rates in Richmond compared to London and national averages. To address these concerns, Leah Seba, Assistant Director of Commissioning for Public Health and Well-Being, highlighted the key priorities for the new service, including reinstating an all-ages integrated sexual health clinic in Richmond. Currently, Richmond only has a clinic for young people.
Regarding the new all-ages clinic, Ms. Seba noted that the council is exploring potential locations, including the possibility of utilising family hubs. The location is being explored prior to the contract coming into place.
According to the Public reports pack, Richmond's estimated total contribution over 10.5 years is £1,239,788, which is approximately £118,075 per year. The total estimated value of the contract across all four boroughs is £50,045,867, or £4,766,273 annually.
The council aims to collaborate with local NHS partners to forward the integrated neighbourhoods agenda. All ISH providers currently operating in South West London are invited to participate in the procurement process. This includes Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust (CLCH), Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, and Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust.
The new contract is expected to be responsive and evolve over its 10-year duration to ensure it remains relevant and appropriate for all community members.
