Homobloc to introduce on-site sexual health testing
The LGBTQIA+ party will return this weekend to Manchester's Depot Mayfield offering the new on-site testing
Homobloc returns to Manchester’s Depot Mayfield this weekend, and alongside a line-up of club favourites, the party is set to introduce on-site sexual health testing that will be available for all attendees.
The new testing site will be conducted by the Manchester-based charity and advice organisation LGBT Foundation and W.E.LSafe team who will test for HIV, Hepatitis and Syphilis.
LGBT Foundation have been working not only with Homobloc recently but also with NHS Greater Manchester to raise awareness and reduce the spread of Monkeypox.
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Tests only take "five to ten minutes" and results will be made available after the event via text once they have been sent through the laboratory, according to a statement from Homobloc.
Homobloc organiser Rod Connolly says: “We are excited to be working with the incredible teams at the LGBT Foundation and W.E.LSafe who have both helped to make sexual health testing possible at this year's festival.
“Accessing sexual health services can be a challenge for people in towns where provisions are low or poorly funded; conversely, for a busy city like Manchester, making the time to access these services can be a difficult undertaking.
“Regular sexual health screenings are integral to maintaining good sexual health, and it’s important as part of our wellbeing commitment that Homobloc is able to bring these essential services direct to the people who need them.”
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Last month, Homobloc announced its own charity T-shirt collection partnering with Róisín Murphy, Honey Dijon and its local partner Feel Good Club.
All proceeds from the collection go towards The Proud Trust, LGBT Foundation, George House Trust and Greater Manchester LGBTQ+ Community Fund.
Róisín Murphy and Honey Dijon will be joining The Blessed Madonna, HAAi, Saoirse, Horse Meat Disco, Moxie b2b Shanti Celeste as well as many more at Saturday’s marathon 14-hour event.
Check out the full line-up and timings below and get tickets to Homobloc this weekend here.
Becky Buckle is Mixmag's Video and Editorial Assistant, follow her on Twitter