Let's Talk HIV Prevention
Shining a spotlight on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis
Ibrahim Suleiman is a public health specialist with a focus on Epidemiology and International Education and Development. His work centres on improving HIV prevention and sexual health outcomes through culturally sensitive outreach, community engagement, and education.
Based with Surrey Sexual Health, he collaborates with clinics, community organisations, and public health teams to reduce health inequalities and support inclusive, evidence-based care for vulnerable populations.
"I want to talk about PrEP - one of the most powerful tools available in HIV prevention."
"I want to talk about PrEP - one of the most powerful tools available in HIV prevention."
What is PrEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a simple, once-daily pill taken by HIV-negative individuals to protect themselves from HIV infection. When taken consistently, it reduces the risk of acquiring HIV by over 99% through sexual transmission.
Originally targeted toward gay and bisexual men, PrEP is now recommended for anyone at risk including heterosexual men and women, transgender individuals, sex workers and people with multiple sexual partners, or those recently diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Why do you need to know about PrEP?
University life is a time of exploration academically, socially, and sometimes sexually. Across the UK, data shows rising STI diagnoses among people aged 15-24, highlighting the need for accessible sexual health education and services.
Cultural stigma, lack of awareness, and limited health literacy can lead to missed opportunities for protection.
PrEP in Surrey: Where can you get it?
Through Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL), students in Surrey can access free, confidential PrEP services via an appointment:
• Woking Community Hospital
• Buryfields Clinic, Guildford
• Earnsdale Sexual Health Clinic, Redhill
Clinics offer HIV testing, sexual health screening, and PrEP prescriptions — no judgment, just support. You can also order home testing kits or book an appointment at CNWL Sexual Health or via Healthy Surrey.
Let's Talk
Here are some students who started PrEP after learning about it at campus events or community sessions...
I had no idea PrEP was for women too. I just assumed it was something for gay men. Now I feel like I’m in control of my health.
At first, I was nervous to ask, but the nurse made me feel completely at ease.
Getting on PrEP was simple and gave me peace of mind.”
Breaking down barriers
Barriers to PrEP access in many communities include stigma, religious and cultural silence around sexuality, lack of sufficient knowledge and not knowing how to access PrEP and a lack of trust in health services. That’s why this campaign partners with student unions, SU clubs and societies, chaplaincy services, and other minority ethnic groups, the youth peer educators to deliver culturally sensitive, peer-informed messaging.
Our goal is to normalise PrEP as part of everyday wellbeing — just like vaccines, contraception, or mental health support.
What you can do now
- Assess your sexual risk behaviour of likely contracting HIV
- Get tested — know your HIV status
- Make an appointment to discuss PrEP at one of our clinics
- Share this blog with your friends
- Challenge stigma by having open, informed conversations
- Follow @cnwlsurreysexhealth on Instagram
By talking openly, learning together, and taking action, we can reduce new HIV infections, dismantle shame, myths and misconceptions, support every student’s right to safe, healthy relationships.
By embracing PrEP, we not only protect individuals—we are strengthening the collective health of our communities.
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