Spectra urges Government action on upcoming Autumn budget
Spectra has joined a coalition of organisations in signing an open letter, led by Decrim Now, calling on the UK Government to take urgent action to address the growing link between poverty and s@x work. The letter, addressed to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and the Chancellor, highlights how the ongoing cost-of-living […]
Spectra speaks to the BBC on HIV outreach in London
A BBC News article features Spectra following the recent release of a report that the London HIV Prevention Programme (LHPP) commissioned. The report highlights persistent disparities in HIV testing and awareness across the capital. The article is part of a broader conversation about how to better reach communities most at risk of HIV, particularly Black […]
Urgent call to oppose EHRC’s harmful guidance on trans exclusion
EHRC Trans Guidance Opposition: Spectra Joins Open Letter Against Proposed Changes Spectra has joined dozens of UK businesses and organisations in signing an open letter opposing the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) proposed changes to its Code of Practice. This collective action is part of the growing EHRC trans guidance opposition. It urges the UK […]
Sexual Health Week professional trainings – free online sessions with Spectra
Free online trainings for Sexual Health Week (15–21 September)In celebration of Sexual Health Week, Spectra is delivering a series of free online professional trainings. Open to all professionals interested in enhancing their understanding of sexual health and wellbeing for clients from varied backgrounds. Equip professionals to support diverse sexual health needsAt Spectra, we are committed […]
Spectra joins national call to revise RSHE 2026 guidance
Coalition urges Government to improve inclusivity Spectra has joined a growing coalition of nearly 5,000 signatories calling for urgent revisions to the UK Government’s proposed Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) 2026 guidance. How you can help Support inclusive education by sharing the letter and encouraging others to sign: Joint letter from trans+/LGBTQ+ orgs Letter highlights the importance […]
Spectra joins a coalition of over 80 organisations demanding Parliamentary scrutiny of the EHRC Code of Practice
Spectra has joined over 80 partner organisations in signing a joint statement calling on Members of Parliament across the UK to demand full democratic scrutiny of the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) forthcoming Code of Practice on Services, Public Functions and Associations. The coalition warns that if Bridget Phillipson, Minister for Women and Equalities, does not […]
PreventX steps up for Spectra: Sheffield round walk fundraiser
PreventX, the largest provider of remote sexual health testing in the UK, is lacing up its walking boots for a cause that matters. On Wednesday, 3rd September, they are taking on the 15-mile Sheffield Round Walk in support of Spectra. The walk, which begins at Endcliffe Park, Rustlings Road, S11 7AB, is expected to take 6–7 hours and will include a litter-picking […]
Sexual Health Zine Open Call
“Sexual health is the ability to embrace and enjoy our sexuality throughout our lives. It is an important part of our physical and emotional health.” -American Sexual Health Association What does sexual health mean to you? Ahead of the Sexual Health week (15-21 September) we invite people from across the UK to share their personal […]
Join Spectra at the 2025 World AIDS Day RED RUN
Spectra will once again take part in the World AIDS Day RED RUN – one of the UK’s largest annual fundraising events for HIV support and awareness. Taking place on Saturday 22 November 2025 in East London’s Victoria Park, the RED RUN is a powerful and joyful day of action, visibility, and community. The event […]
Position of HIV organisations on trans rights and the EHRC’s draft Code of Practice
The Supreme Court ruling on the definition of biological sex in the Equality Act has sent shockwaves through our communities. So many trans[1] people are hugely worried and angry about its impact on their rights, safety, and privacy. This includes service users, colleagues and volunteers. We respect the role of the Supreme Court, but as […]
Farewell to two of our Board members
Spectra wants to say a big thank you and farewell to two of our Board Directors, who are leaving Spectra to focus on other initiatives. Ruth Dixon (she/her) has been on the Spectra board since early 2017 and has played a vital role in its good governance over the years. A team player, Ruth has […]
We Stand With Our Trans Communities
Spectra are deeply concerned today about the UK Supreme Court ruling around the sex definition in the Equality Act 2010. The judgement said: “The unanimous decision of this court is that the terms woman and sex in the Equality Act 2010 refer to a biological woman and biological sex. But we counsel against reading this […]
Spectra Announces Joel Robinson as New CEO
Spectra is thrilled to announce the appointment of Joel Robinson (he/him) as our new Chief Executive Officer. Joel brings over two decades of experience in the fields of HIV, Sexual Health, and advocacy for trans and gender diverse health. His career includes a range of senior positions, most recently as Acting Co-CEO and Director of […]
“Searching: a film by Spectra”
We‘re so excited to finally share: “Searching: a film by Spectra.“ The short film gives an overview of Spectra’s trans services. From counselling, to health advocacy, to mentoring and social groups – our services are delivered by people of trans experience themselves in a friendly, safe, confidential, non-judgemental and accessible space.
Red Run 2024 – fundraise for Spectra!
The World AIDS Day RED RUN returns to Victoria Park, East London for its 14th year on 23 November 2024. The 10K or 5K fun run or walk supports HIV charities from across the country to strengthen the UK’s response to HIV. Sign up to run or walk and select Spectra as your charity. It […]