Umbrella Whittall Street Clinic

It was with great trepidation that I sought out help from this service. I rang the day before and was informed that I could use the drop in service but to arrive ten mins before the service commenced I arrived ten mins before the drop in service started, completed the form and then sat in an overcrowded, cramped waiting room while a member of staff dished out free condoms to those waiting (highly embarrassing) then continued to have discussions with all and sundry about these new condoms and how they might taste. An hour and a half later my name was called, I entered the consulting room to be met by 3 people. The atmosphere was very strained, I felt as though I was "on show" and being processed rather than empathised with. Various whispers going on behind the curtain and beforehand an unexpected burst in to the room by an apologetic member of staff. It couldn't have been any worse for someone who was already feeling concerned.

Staff are sensitive to needs to patients and are very approachable. The waiting room and clinic areas look very dated and tired however the service provision is very caring. Had to wait over 1 hour 50 minutes despite having an appointment for something very straight forward.