Celebrating a decade of Umbrella
Published on 14/08/2025
Umbrella is celebrating 10 years of providing a sexual health service for Birmingham and Solihull residents.
Established in collaboration with a diverse network of partners, including NHS clinics, pharmacies, general practices, third sector organisations, and community support groups, Umbrella, led by University Hospitals Birmingham (UHB), has redefined the delivery of sexual health services across the city.
Over the past decade, Umbrella has transitioned from a traditional treatment focused clinical model to a progressive, preventative approach.
Through a strategic emphasis on education, health promotion, and partnership working, the service has significantly enhanced accessibility and engagement, empowering individuals to take greater ownership of their sexual health.
Dr Meg Boothby, Consultant in Sexual Health and HIV Medicine, Clinical Service Lead for Umbrella Sexual Health, said: “I am delighted to mark the 10th anniversary of Umbrella Sexual Health alongside our dedicated staff. This milestone is a testament to the vision, innovation, and hard work of the sexual health team and UHB leadership, whose efforts laid the foundation for Umbrella’s launch in 2015.
“Umbrella was among the first services nationally to introduce routine home STI testing, accessible online and via local pharmacies. Our pioneering collaboration with pharmacists to deliver contraception has since informed the national pharmacy contraception programme.
“Over the past decade, we have built hundreds of partnerships with community organisations, delivering education and outreach in schools, colleges, universities, workplaces, and other settings. These efforts, alongside our communication campaigns, have made the Umbrella brand widely recognised across Birmingham and Solihull as a trusted source of sexual health support.
“Congratulations to everyone involved. We should all be proud of what Umbrella has achieved, continues to deliver, and will accomplish in the years ahead.”
Lee Betteridge-Lyness, Umbrella’s Sexual Health General Manager, said: “As the newly appointed General Manager, I am proud to celebrate ten years of Umbrella Sexual Health’s service to the communities of Birmingham and Solihull.
“At the heart of the continued success is our exceptional team. From clinicians to outreach workers and digital specialists, their dedication and expertise have shaped Umbrella into a globally recognised model of excellence. Their commitment remains the foundation of our achievements and the driving force behind our future ambitions.”
For further information about Umbrella or to order a free STI self-testing kit online visit:
