Vulnerable adults will be screened for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases in an attempt to stop the spread of infections in Waltham Forest.

Turning Point Open Access provides support for people affected by drug and alcohol misuse in the borough.

Working in partnership with Barts Health Trust and Waltham Forest council, the charity is now offering STD screening to all its clients.

In an attempt to tackle to spread of sexually transmitted diseases in the borough, it will offer on-the-spot testing for Chlamydia, Hepatitis C and HIV.

Jo Tanner, team leader at Turning Point Open Access, said: “Our experience shows that some people who misuse alcohol and other substances can be at greater risk of unsafe sexual behaviour, and may have a higher risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.

“As STIs can persist even after someone has recovered from substance or alcohol misuse, it makes sense to offer this additional support.

“Our clients often feel uncomfortable accessing new services and would rather take risks than access this type of support separately.

“The harm that alcohol and drug misuse does in the community is not limited to the impact of the chemicals themselves, but by the changes in individuals’ behaviour that their use can bring about.”

Dr Monica Lascar, Consultant Physician at Barts Health NHS Trust, added: “We would urge everyone who is offered the test to take up this opportunity. It is shocking to think that over half of the people living with HIV or Hepatitis C in London, including the London Borough of Waltham Forest, were diagnosed late.

“The introduction of new treatments has had a positive impact on those living with HIV and Hepatitis C.

“Patients treated for HIV can live a normal lifespan and new Hepatitis C drugs cure more than 80 per cent of those treated.”

The drop-in clinic is open once a month on Thursday evenings at Unit 5, Alpha Business Centre, 60 South Grove, Walthamstow.