A number of people work at the Steve Retson Project. Their roles are explained here.
Doctors
One of the most popular services on offer is that provided by the doctor. In their consultation they offer a range of options, including focusing on an aspect of health that you have raised, or perhaps giving a full sexual health screening. They can answer any health questions you have - it doesn't have to be sexual.
Nurses
As well as carrying out sexual health screens and working with the doctor during examinations, nurses take blood and administer appropriate treatments and vaccinations. They also provide an opportunity for those attending to ask questions concerning their treatment and offer a variety of sexual health advice.
Health Advisor
After seeing perhaps a nurse or doctor you may be referred to the health advisor who is available for one-to-one, confidential discussion. These discussions can be around any aspect of sexual health, including HIV counselling, safer sex and condoms, sexually transmitted infections, and negotiating the sex you want. They can talk through your options so that you can take charge of your own health, and so that your visits to the Project are not isolated from your day to day life.
Counsellors
The Steve Retson Project is not just focused on physical health. To this end, counsellors deal with a variety of areas of mental and emotional health, which are not necessarily linked to sexual orientation. Some visitors to the Project will come for a one-off chat to sort out a particular problem, whilst others will engage in longer-term therapeutic work. We want to stress that our counselling service is not just about H.I.V.
Volunteers - Host Helpers
The role of host helper has always been integral to that of the Steve Retson Project as it was seen to be the real link to the community. Their role is to be a 'friendly face' to visitors - but are always sensitive to your needs. If you want a chat, they'll happily talk away, or leave you to read or think in peace.