
LGBT Foundation reaction to the outcome of the NHS appeal on the High Court ruling on PrEP
Published: 10 November 2016 Tags: lgbt, prep, nhs By John Walding

Commenting on today’s decision, Rob Cookson, Deputy Chief Executive of LGBT Foundation, the largest LGBT support organisation in the UK, said:
“We are delighted at today’s decision to uphold the High Court ruling. We believe that PrEP would be a really important addition to the range of prevention options for gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM). We therefore welcome the fact that NHS England will finally have to reconsider their decision on PrEP.
"LGBT Foundation has worked closely with a range of partner organisations and community activists to challenge the initial decision with PrEP by NHS England. We are extremely encouraged that NHS England is finally being asked to reconsider its decision on PrEP, but it is vital that community voices continue to be loud on this important issue.
"With over 2,500 MSM diagnosed each year in the UK, HIV remains a critical issue. While PrEP can, and should, play its part in helping to reduce HIV infections, PrEP doesn’t offer protection against acquiring other STIs. Condoms and regular HIV testing continue to remain very important.We thank everyone who has played their part, particularly the leadership of the National Aids Trust (NAT), in ensuring today’s outcome, and LGBT Foundation will continue to play its part in keeping PrEP in firmly in the spotlight.”