Sexual Health Advisers support people with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and a wide range of sexual health concerns.
They provide information, emotional support, and practical advice to help patients understand their diagnosis and maintain good sexual health. This work is confidential, person‑centred and non‑judgemental.
About Us
The Society of Sexual Health Advisers (SSHA) is the UK’s national organisation for Sexual Health Advisers, representing around 200 members across the country.
We provide a professional community for networking, collaboration, and ongoing development within the field of sexual health.
SSHA runs an Annual Conference and also Study Days throughout the year. We have a new updated Member Newsletter which we hope to send out three times a year.
SSHA is YOUR organisation and is here to support YOU.
SSHA Partners
BASHH
SSHA works closely with BASHH (British Association of Sexual Health and HIV). BASHH is the UK’s leading professional multi-disciplinary organisation dealing with all aspects of sexual health care. BASHH aims to champion and promote good sexual health and provide information to the public.
We encourage SHAs to also belong to BASHH so that our profession is recognised and our voice heard within the Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Sexual Health speciality itself. There is a specific SHA and Nurse group within BASHH called SHAN.
UNITE
SSHA is a professional section within Unite the Union. Through this partnership, members benefit from:
- Workplace support
- Representation on issues such as pay, terms and conditions
- Advice and assistance with grievances or employment concerns
This relationship strengthens our collective voice and ensures Sexual Health Advisers are supported both professionally and within their workplaces.
SSHA Regional Reps and OPC
SSHA is overseen by a National Organising Professional Committee (OPC) of elected Officers and Regional Representatives. It consists of a President, Membership Secretary, Treasurer, Secretary, Web Administrator, Education Officer and an Equalities Officer.
There is also a Regional Representative on the NOPC for:
- London
- Scotland
- Northern Ireland
- Wales
- The North-West of England
- NE Yorkshire and Humberside
- West Midlands
- East Midlands
- The South West
The Council meets four times a year to:
- Set professional standards
- Produce statements and guidance
- Lead working groups on key issues
- Support the development of the Sexual Health Advising profession
We currently need some Regional Representatives – please contact Ceri Evans if you would like to apply or if you have any questions.
SSHA needs YOU
We need your enthusiasm, your skills, your knowledge, your experience, your ideas, your ingenuity!
Join SSHA now and help us promote the vital role of Sexual Health Advisers and create a community of professionals who are passionate about their job.
