We are currently planning a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to answer the question:

‘What is the impact of online testing on new sexually transmitted infections diagnosed in Lambeth and Southwark?’

To definitively answer this question we will need to recruit 3000 residents of Lambeth and Southwark who have online access and are willing to take an STI test and randomise them to receive information about local clinical services or the opportunity to order a testing kit to be sent home. We will follow everyone up to see which approach resulted in more tests and more infections diagnosed. The size of this study is a huge challenge but it is an essential part of evaluating the public health impact of this new service. We will be recruiting participants to the study from colleges and other community venues from September.