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Media enquiries

MSI Reproductive Choices UK is an independent provider of reproductive health services.

Our press office can provide information and comment on issues relating to abortion care and vasectomy, as well as the services offered in the United Kingdom.


Contact our Press Office

If you have a media enquiry, please email press@msichoices.org or get in touch using the following details:

Kylie Harrison, Global Media Lead

Grace Dunne, Press Officer

Consultation responses

We produce submissions to government consultations and inquiries on issues that impact our clients, from harassment outside abortion clinics, to access to domestic abuse services and abortion law reform. Our expert clinical, medical and governance teams inform our evidence-based submissions to positively influence government policy and legislation.

Latest press releases

15th January 2024

MSI Reproductive Choices is opening new abortion centres across South Yorkshire in RotherhamBarnsleySheffield and Doncaster in January.

The opening of these clinics, and a new state-of-the-art surgical centre in South Yorkshire in early 2024, will more than double the number of NHS-funded abortion clinics across South Yorkshire.
Clients will also be able to access a full range of contraception methods through the clinics, as well as STI screening for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV.

These centres, commissioned by NHS South Yorkshire offer in-person medical abortion appointments, while MSI’s award-winning telemedicine service will enable eligible patients to consult with a nurse over the phone at a time that is convenient for them, and take medical abortion pills in their own homes, without attending a clinic.

Richard Bentley, MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK Managing Director, said:  

“I’m pleased that MSI has been chosen to provide this vital healthcare. Our new clinics will increase access and enable our team members to provide the very best care for people in South Yorkshire.  

“Choice is at the heart of everything we do, and we are proud to be catering for a range of individual needs, including offering interpreters and unlimited counselling, alongside our high-quality abortion care.” 

Emma Price, Head of Transformation at NHS South Yorkshire said:

“We are looking forward to working with MSI to expand our choice services in South Yorkshire.
“Providing care closer to home and improving access to services is one of our key aims, and I am pleased that people can receive increased support at a place more convenient for them.’’

In addition to the highly rated care and support provided by the clinics’ nursing staff, One Call – MSI’s national contact centre – is available on 0345 300 8090 for anyone looking for further information, advice, or to book an appointment. If clients would like to talk to a nurse following their treatment, MSI runs a dedicated 24-hour aftercare line, while an online chat service allows patients to consult quickly, confidentially and safely without the need to phone.

Counselling with independent counsellors registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy is also available both before and at any point after using the service.

For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Joint press release by MSI Reproductive Choices, BPASRoyal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare

London, 18th October 2023

A year ago today, MPs voted 297-110 to introduce safe access zones around abortion clinics. Introduced as an amendment to the Public Order Act, the Act became law in May 2023 – but safe access zones have still not been implemented.

As medical professionals and organisations which care for women in need of abortion services, we are calling on the Home Secretary to bring safe access zones into force now.

Clinic harassment

Over many years, clinics and hospitals have been targeted by anti-abortion groups who want to dissuade or deter women from accessing legal abortion care. In the five months since the law passed, fifteen clinics which serve thousands of women have been targeted by anti-abortion groups.

Behaviour has included:
a man protesting in the waiting room of one clinic, refusing to leave;
30 people marching to a clinic and lining the pavements outside for hours, causing anxiety and distress to women inside;
individuals standing by a hospital housing a clinic with graphic signs of foetuses and bible verses on 20ft banner;
– anti-abortion preachers standing opposite clinics with body cameras and a posterboard reading “babies are murdered here”; and
– a man who regularly kneels directly outside the entrance of a clinic with his hands in the air, attempting to stop women from entering.

The law

The law as written provides for the introduction of safe access zones around every abortion clinic in England and Wales. They would ban any activity in the 150 metres around an abortion clinic which intimidates, causes harassment, alarm, or distress, or seeks to influence women or medical professionals visiting or providing abortion services.

Although safe access zones were passed into law on 2nd May 2023, the Home Secretary has not yet commenced this section of the Act. Commencement requires the Home Secretary to issue a Statutory Instrument with a date on which the provisions come into force. Until the section is commenced by the Home Secretary, safe access zones are not in force.

Our ask

The decision to protect women accessing and medical professionals providing abortion care has been made in parliament. There is no justification for the Government to refuse to implement the law MPs voted for.

We are calling on the Home Secretary to protect women and bring safe access zones into force now.

Rachael Clarke, Chief of Staff at the British Pregnancy Advisory Service, said:

“The point of a free vote in Parliament on abortion is that decisions are made by individual MPs’ consciences, not by Government picking and choosing what they want to do with these essential laws. This law was supported overwhelmingly with a majority of MPs from all major parties agreeing. There is simply no justification for the complete silence from the Home Secretary.
“Women were in need of protection this time last year, and they are in even more desperate need now. The only way to protect them is to bring safe access zones into force as soon as possible.”

Dr Ranee Thakar, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said:

“Women have the right to access essential healthcare without fear of intimidation or harassment. Safe access zones must be brought into force now, to stop anti-choice organisations imposing stigma, guilt and shame on those accessing and providing abortion care services. This would not be tolerated for any other area of healthcare.” 

Dr Tracey Masters, Abortion Care Expert for the Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare, said:

“One year ago, MPs voted to implement safe access zones around facilities providing abortion care to stop the unacceptable harassment of patients and staff.

“In a recent YouGov poll, the British public voted overwhelmingly in favour of the implementation of safe access zones, with three quarters of the Britons supported banning people from protesting outside abortion clinics.
“Abortion care is an essential part of healthcare, which everyone should be able to access free from intimidation and harassment. In addition, all healthcare workers should be able to access their place of work free of judgement or fear. 
“The only way to ensure patients are able to access healthcare free of harassment and intimidation is the legal implementation of buffer zones around abortion clinics across the UK.
“We call on the Home Office to bring safe access zones into force immediately.”

Louise McCudden, Head of External Affairs, MSI Reproductive Choices UK, said:

“Safe access zones protect women and frontline healthcare workers from harassment, which has in the past included spitting, calling women murderers, and threatening to take photographs. People are fed up with seeing these behaviours in their communities, so it’s no surprise to us that recent YouGov polling found 77% of Brits back safe access zones. Parliament voted across all major parties in support of these zones, and the policy has now been signed into law. We urge the Home Office to get on with implementing this legislation so women can access abortion care confidentially and with dignity, no matter where in the country they happen to live.”


For further information, please contact:
Name: Kylie Harrison and Grace Dunne
Email: press@msichoices.org 
Telephone: 07769 166 516

London, 12th October 2023

Representatives from across the reproductive rights sector welcome the results of a new YouGov UK poll today that demonstrate once again that Britain is a pro-choice nation. Almost 90% of Britons support abortion being allowed in the UK.

Whilst in many places around the world tension remains around abortion laws, this survey shows a very different situation in Britain where the continued provision of abortion is resoundingly supported. It follows the recent publication of results of polling from the National Centre for Social Research that also found support for a woman’s right to choose is at a record high in the UK.

This year, multiple women have been prosecuted for seeking abortion. However, this survey shows the majority of the population believe women who have abortions outside set rules (for example, having an abortion without the consent of a doctor, or beyond the legal time limits) should not face criminal prosecution.

We are calling on MPs to listen to the public and to take immediate action to reform and modernise our country’s outdated abortion laws. The message from this survey is clear – the British public think that nobody should be sent to prison for having an abortion, and people should be allowed to choose an abortion regardless of their reason for doing so.

Key statistics from the report include:
– 87% of Britons say abortion should be allowed in the UK.
– More than half (52%) of Britons say that women who have abortions outside of the rules should not face criminal prosecution – with just 21% saying they should.
– Three quarters of Britons (74%) support changing the law to enshrine a legal right to abortion.
– More than six in ten Britons (63%) would support allowing abortions to be approved by a nurse or another medical practitioner, rather than the two doctors needed now.
– Three quarters of Britons (77%) support a ban on anti-abortion protests outside clinics.

Jonathan Lord, Medical Director of MSI Reproductive Choices UK, commented:
“It’s unsurprising to see such a high level of support for abortion in the UK. Whilst vocal anti-choice groups continue to target women and health providers, they are a small minority in this country and these results have proven that.
“Abortion is one of the most common and safe healthcare procedures in the UK and should be regulated like every other healthcare procedure. We are in complete agreement with the six in ten Britons who support allowing abortions to be approved by a nurse or another medical practitioner, rather than the two doctors needed now which is an overly bureaucratic, expensive and paternalistic policy which puts an unnecessary strain on an already overstretched NHS.
“Those who choose to end their pregnancy should be supported by our legal system and not intimidated and stigmatised for their decision.”

Dr Ranee Thakar, President of Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, commented:
“We welcome this polling which once again shows that nearly 90% of Britons support women’s access to safe abortion services. One in three British women will have an abortion in their lifetime, yet the abortion law in England and Wales is one of the oldest healthcare laws in existence at more than 50 years old. It’s time that this is updated. We believe abortion should be regulated in line with other medical procedures, and not be treated as a criminal matter.”

Clare Murphy, Chief Executive of the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS), said:
“In a year where five women have appeared in court charged with illegal abortion under laws dating back to 1861, it is heartening to see that only 1 in 5 Britons believe this is right. These women are often in hugely difficult circumstances, vulnerable, and may be experiencing domestic abuse or sexual exploitation. The answer can never be criminalising them.
“Across the sector we have seen an escalation in police interest in women – where they have previously determined prosecution is not in the public interest, there is now an increasing drive towards the criminalisation of the most vulnerable of women.
“These women desperately need urgent reform of the law, so today, recognising the overwhelming public support for abortion law reform, we are reiterating the call of 35 healthcare and women’s rights organisations for MPs to urgently act to stop the criminalisation of women.”

Dr Janet Barter, President of the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare said:
“We are thrilled to see such overwhelming support from the public for everyone’s right to access abortion services in the UK.
“We welcome the public’s support for removing abortion from criminal law. Abortion care is highly regulated and should solely be subject to appropriate professional standards in line with any other healthcare procedures, not criminal sanctions. Prosecuting a woman for ending her pregnancy will never be in the public interest, it merely causes harm to women (many of whom will be in vulnerable circumstances), their families and wider society.
“We call on the Government and politicians to urgently look to reform our current out-dated abortion laws, recognising that abortion is an essential form of healthcare. It’s time to listen to what the public want.

– Ends –

Notes to Editors
The YouGov UK poll on the views of British people on abortion is available here. This surveyed the views of 2,098 adults in Great Britain. The survey asked questions around a variety of issues including, the gestation limit of abortions, how accessible abortion care is in the UK, the circumstances that people should be able to get an abortion, the criminalisation of abortion care, who should be able to approve an abortion and whether anti-abortion groups should be allowed outside clinics.

Recent polling from the National Centre for Social Research can be read here. This polling explores the support for a woman’s right to reproductive choice.

For further information or interviews with MSI spokespeople please contact:
Name: Kylie Harrison and Grace Dunne
Email: press@msichoices.org 
Telephone: 07769 166 516

London, 18th July 2023

A woman who was sentenced in June for ending her own pregnancy will be released from prison after the Court of Appeal reduced her sentence today.

On 12th June 2023, in a rare and distressing case, a woman was sentenced for ending her own pregnancy outside the parameters of the Abortion Act 1967. The Act makes abortion legal under certain specific circumstances. As part of the original sentence, she was told she would serve half of her 28-month term in custody.

Today, the Court of Appeal has reduced her sentence to 14 months and ruled it should be suspended, meaning that she will be released from prison as the judge described her case as one which ‘calls for compassion, not punishment’.

Louise McCudden, UK Head of External Affairs at MSI Reproductive Choices, commented:

“The Court of Appeal was right to recognise that this distressing case should have been treated with compassion and not punishment.
It is not in the public interest to send someone to prison for ending their own pregnancy.”
 
– Ends –

For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media statement
London, 22nd June 2023 

If you are covering today’s new abortion statistics for England and Wales, you may find the following statement and summary from leading abortion provider MSI Reproductive Choices helpful.

New abortion statistics for England and Wales released today from the Department of Health and Social Care show that in the first six months of 2022:

– Between January and June 2022, there were 123,219 abortions performed on residents of England and Wales. This compares with 105,488 over the same period in 2021 – an increase of 17%.

– The majority of abortions took place in the early stages of pregnancy: 67% up to and including 7 weeks gestation; 93% up to and including 12 weeks, and 98% up to and including 17 weeks gestation.

– From January to June 2022, medical abortions accounted for 86% of abortions. This compares with 87% of abortions over the same period in 2021, and 87% of abortions over the full 2021 calendar year.

– The majority (97%) of medical abortions in the first 6 months of 2022 were performed at under 10 weeks, similar to the proportion in the first 6 months of 2021 (97%). This compares with 89% in 2021 and 78% in 2011.

– There has been a continuing upward trend in medical abortions since 1991, when mifepristone was first licensed for use in the UK. Early medical abortion at home has accounted for over 50% of terminations each quarter since April to June 2021 abortions.
 
Sarah Salkeld, UK Associate Clinical Director, MSI Reproductive Choices, commented:

“People choose abortion for a range of reasons and the record number of abortions in the first six months of last year can be attributed to multiple factors. These range from lack of access to contraceptive services, which has left many people facing unacceptable waiting times, to the cost-of-living crisis, which inevitably means fewer people feel comfortable starting or expanding their family. 

“These pressures are unrelenting, so it’s unsurprising that demand has continued increasing into 2023. At MSI, we have witnessed a 30% year-on-year increase in the number of people seeking abortion care over the first five months of this year.

“Despite this rising demand, it is reassuring that the data today shows that people continue to be able to access care early in their pregnancy. Telemedicine remains an important option, particularly benefiting those who struggle to attend face-to-face appointments, including those in abusive relationships, those with caring responsibilities, and those without transport. MSI data shows an equal split between those choosing in-person medical appointments and telemedicine, highlighting how important it is to offer options that take into account personal circumstances.

“With calls for abortion law reform across the UK increasing, these statistics demonstrate that abortion is essential healthcare and should be given a legal framework which recognises this. One in three women will have an abortion in their lifetime in the UK. MSI believes abortion should be decriminalised to ensure that no-one is deterred from seeking essential NHS services or is afraid to be open and honest with their healthcare provider.”
 
– Ends –

The full statistics are online here: Abortion statistics for England and Wales: January to June 2022
 
MSI data and information is below:
– MSI UK has seen a 30% year on year increase in demand for abortion over the first five months in 2023.
– Over the last two years, MSI UK has recruited an additional 50 nurses and midwives in response to the additional demand. It has also recruited an additional 50 people at its award-winning contact centre over the last year.
– MSI UK has added 500 additional surgical appointments during the first five months of 2023 in response to rising demand.
– In 2022, MSI UK carried out a record 8,000 vasectomies demonstrating how many men want to share responsibility for contraception.
– MSI UK has introduced online booking and webchat functions to give people more choice over how they communicate with us and make it easier and quicker to book an appointment.
 
For further information, please email press@mischoices.org or call +44 (0) 7769 166 516.

London, 13th June 2023

On 12th June 2023, in a rare and distressing case, a woman was sentenced for ending her own pregnancy outside the narrow parameters of the Abortion Act 1967. The Act makes abortion legal under certain specific circumstances.

We condemn this sentence. We do not believe it is ever in the public interest to prosecute anyone for ending their own pregnancy, and we believe abortion should be decriminalised.

Dr Sarah Salkeld, Associate Clinical Director at MSI Reproductive Choices UK, said:

“This has been an incredibly distressing case for everyone involved. It is neither a compassionate nor a proportionate response to send someone to prison for ending their pregnancy. Nor is it in the public interest.

The fact this came to court could have repercussions for those who find themselves in unimaginably difficult situations, including unexplained pregnancy loss.”
 
We believe that criminal law has no place in abortion care 

The case has shone a light on Britain’s outdated Victorian laws, which mean that abortion is still criminalised under certain circumstances.
In Northern Ireland, abortion was decriminalised following a Westminster vote in 2019, yet in the rest of the UK it remains within criminal law. That means an abortion is only legal if your reason for having one meets the criteria set out in the 1967 Abortion Act. If someone accesses an abortion outside of these parameters, they could face police investigation, prosecution, or even jail. 

We believe that across the whole of the UK, abortion should sit outside criminal law.

Abortion is healthcare, and healthcare is recognised as a human right. One in three women in the UK will have an abortion by the time she’s 45. It is also one of the most common gynaecological procedures provided by the NHS.
Yet it is still governed by a law from 1861, at a time when healthcare and society were completely different. Women couldn’t vote. It was 68 years before penicillin was discovered. Abortion pills would not be invented for over a century.
 
Decriminalisation does not mean deregulation

We believe that abortion care should be regulated the same way that any other comparable form of healthcare would be. In fact, despite being extremely safe and extremely common, abortion is one of the most heavily regulated areas of healthcare available – and none of that need change with decriminalisation.  

What would change is the rare but highly distressing occurrence of incidents in which women have faced criminal investigation, or even prison, for ending their own pregnancies. Abortion is a personal choice, and it is a medical service. Criminal law has no part to play in assessing who should or should not be denied access.

Medical professionals, human rights organisations and women’s rights advocates agree that now is the time to bring our laws in line with modern medicine.

For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media statement
London, 3rd May 2023
On 2nd May, safe access zones (also known as abortion clinic ‘buffer zones’) were signed into law in England and Wales, protecting clinics and ensuring that those accessing or providing essential abortion care will soon be able to do so free from anti-choice harassment and intimidation.

In a huge victory for reproductive rights, safe access zones have been signed into law in England and Wales. The legislation will make it an offence to influence, obstruct, or harass those accessing or providing abortion care within 150 metres of a clinic, hospital, or any premises providing services. Soon, everyone will have the right to access vital reproductive healthcare with safety, dignity and privacy.  

Louise McCudden, UK Head of External Affairs at MSI Reproductive Choices, commented:

“Safe access zones around abortion clinics have been signed into law in England and Wales. Before long, all those accessing abortion care will be able to do so safely, confidentially, and with dignity.

“The first ever safe access zone was introduced around our clinic in Ealing, so we know all too well the major impact that hostile activity outside our clinics can have, and why these protections are so important.

“With legislation already in place in Northern Ireland, and the Scottish government committed to taking action, soon abortion access will be free from harassment and distress across the whole of the UK.

“In the aftermath of the overturning of Roe v Wade last year, we see anti-choice activity outside clinics around the world, so it’s especially heartening to see the UK taking the lead in protecting reproductive rights.”

For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media statement
London, 7th December 2022
The UK supreme court has ruled that a bill to ban anti-choice protests outside Northern Ireland abortion clinics is ‘lawful’ and does not ‘disproportionately interfere’ with protestors rights. 

This judgement means that the Northern Ireland Assembly can legislate to create buffer zones around abortion clinics, protecting those accessing and providing services from anti-choice harassment. Northern Ireland is the first part of the UK to bring such legislation into place.

Jonathan Lord, UK Medical Director at MSI Reproductive Choices, said:

“We welcome the unanimous Supreme Court judgement that a bill to ban anti-abortion activity close to abortion clinics and hospitals is lawful. For far too long those in need of abortion care, their families and our team members have been subjected to unacceptable harassment and intimidation. Whether silent or vocal, solitary or in groups, this behaviour can be deeply distressing, especially for the most vulnerable.    

“Anti-choice groups have become emboldened following events in the United States, and this week alone we have had several troubling reports from outside our healthcare facilities. As the judges identified, anyone who wishes to access healthcare should have a reasonable expectation of being able to do so without being confronted by behaviour designed to diminish their autonomy.

“We are delighted for our partners and allies in Northern Ireland and look forward to quick action in Scotland, England and Wales to enable everybody in the UK to access the healthcare they need without fear of intimidation, bullying and harassment.”

In October, MPs in the House of Commons voted for a similar proposal in favour of national abortion clinic buffer zones across England and Wales, which is still making its way through the House of Lords. To read more about this news, click here: MSI Reproductive Choices UK comment on UK Government vote in favour of abortion clinic buffer zones in England and Wales

– Ends –
For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media statement
London, 16th November 2022
Local MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy visited MSI Reproductive Choices UK’s abortion clinic on Brixton Hill to discuss rising anti-abortion activity in the UK and express her support for the service.

The MP, who grew up in the local area where the clinic in located, spoke with frontline team members at the leading abortion provider about the rise in anti-abortion activity outside UK abortion clinics since the repeal of Roe v Wade in the United States, and the impact that anti-choice groups are having on those accessing care, especially vulnerable women.  

The MSI Reproductive Choices clinic in Brixton has seen a steady presence outside its gates from anti-abortion groups. In other parts of the country, local authorities have used Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) to create “buffer zones” around abortion clinics.

The team also discussed access to contraception in the local area, abortion funding, and workforce pressures, which are felt particularly acutely in Brixton.

Abortion clinic buffer zones
On Tuesday 18th October, the House of Commons voted in favour of an amendment which, once it passes the House of Lords, would introduce buffer zones (or ‘safe access zones’) to protect abortion clinics, hospitals and other premises from anti-abortion groups by requiring them to stand at least 150 metres away.

The amendment (as part of the Public Order Bill) is making its way through the House of Lords and has already passed second reading.
 
Angela Jones, Regional General Manager said: “Abortion is essential healthcare, and we are grateful for the tremendous support we see for our work from the local community.

“It was great to welcome Bell Ribeiro-Addy to the clinic. As the national buffer zone legislation progresses through Parliament, we really appreciate her support in the face of the small but vocal anti-abortion minority who turn up outside the clinic every week with the clear intention of shaming people for accessing abortion.”
 
Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP said: “It was great to visit the clinic to see first-hand the important work that staff are doing to support women in our area in the face of staffing challenges, funding shortages and targeted anti-abortion protests.
“I am particularly concerned by the escalation of anti-abortion activity around the clinic in recent months. Women should be able to access these essential services without having to run a gauntlet of intimidation and harassment. That’s why I’ve written to Lambeth Council urging them to implement a buffer zone around the clinic.”
 
Notes to Editors
For interviews and further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media statement
London, 18th October 2022
Today, the House of Commons has voted in favour of national legislation on abortion clinic buffer zones in England and Wales.
 
MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK Advocacy and Public Affairs Advisor Louise McCudden said:

“Today’s vote marks a huge victory for reproductive rights. This will protect over 100,000 women a year, who will finally be able to access the healthcare to which they are legally entitled free from intimidation and harassment.
“For decades, our teams around the country have been forced to witness the cruel tactics of anti-abortion groups who have had a free pass to harass people attending our clinics, invade their space and attempt to block their right to healthcare.

“This landmark decision marks the culmination of years of inspirational campaigning by groups across the country and we are incredibly grateful to all the MPs who supported this amendment.

“At long last, everyone will have the right to access vital reproductive healthcare with safety, dignity, and privacy, no matter where in the country they happen to live.”
 
For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

On 24th June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled there is no constitutional right to abortion in the United States, upending a precedent set nearly 50 years ago.

Roe v Wade was the landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1973 to legalise abortion in America. The 1973 ruling recognised that the decision whether to continue or end a pregnancy belongs to the individual, not the government and that the right to ‘liberty’ in the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution includes the right to decide whether to continue with a pregnancy.
 
Louise McCudden, UK Advocacy and Public Affairs Advisor for MSI Reproductive Choices, said: 
“Although the UK is a proudly pro-choice nation with over 90% of people in support of abortion rights, we are concerned how a rollback of Roe v Wade in the US will embolden anti-choice activists in the UK. We’re already seeing an increase in anti-choice activity outside some of our clinics, which may well be in part because anti-choice groups will now feel so emboldened by this news. 

It’s also a timely reminder that abortion laws and access to services in the UK, although better than in many countries, are far from perfect. It is not right that abortion still sits within criminal law and people must obtain sign off from two doctors before they can access essential healthcare. The devastating news from the US should serve as a reminder that we in the UK can never take reproductive rights for granted until abortion is treated like all other healthcare.” 
 
To read a joint statement from Sarah Shaw, Head of Advocacy at MSI Reproductive Choices, Banchiamlack Dessalegn, MSI’s Africa Director and Araceli Lopez Nava, MSI’s Latin America Regional Managing Director, click here: ‘Decisions made in the US have an impact far beyond their borders’ — MSI’s statement on Roe v Wade
To read more about the impact of Roe v Wade in the UK, click here: The rollback of US abortion rights will be felt worldwide
 
For further information, please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media statement
London, 21st June 2022 
If you are covering today’s new Abortion Statistics for England and Wales, please find the following statement and summary from leading abortion provider MSI Reproductive Choices UK.

New abortion statistics for England and Wales released today from the Department of Health and Social Care show that:

214,256 abortions were reported in England and Wales in 2021, the highest since the Abortion Act was introduced. This compares with 210,860 over the same period in 2020.  

In 2021, 89% of abortions were carried out under 10 weeks. This compares with 88% in 2020 and 78% in 2011. 

The abortion rate for women aged under 18 has continued to decrease. The rate has remained stable for women aged 35 and over. The largest increase in abortion rates by age are among women aged 30-34.  

In 2021, 57% of women seeking an abortion were already mothers, compared with 51% in 2011.  

Women living in the most deprived areas of England are more than twice as likely to have abortions than women living in the least deprived areas.  

Early medical abortion at home is the most common procedure, with 52% of all women having abortions in 2021 taking both tablets at home. The percentage of medical abortion overall, accounted for 87% of abortions.  

Despite abortion being decriminalised in Northern Ireland in 2019, some 161 women from Northern Ireland travelled to England and Wales for abortions in 2021. This compares to 371 in 2020 and 1,014 in 2019.
 
Dr Jonathan Lord, MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK Medical Director said:
“Despite the record numbers needing an abortion in 2021, it is reassuring that women continue to access care earlier in their pregnancy. This is even more remarkable as in most NHS services access was significantly restricted by the pandemic, demonstrating how well abortion services have adapted using innovations such as telemedicine.    

“We know how successful and highly rated our telemedicine abortion-at-home care has been. It’s therefore a little concerning that the figures suggest up to 75,000 women, 40% of those having a medical abortion, might not have been offered the option of taking both sets of tablets at home. While there may be valid reasons for this in some cases, it suggests many people are not being offered the best, evidence-based care.    

“The data shows abortion is an essential choice, and with continuing problems accessing contraception coupled with the cost of living crisis, we would not be surprised to see greater demand over the coming months.”

Northern Ireland 
“Although we are proud to support those travelling from Northern Ireland, it simply is not right that the journey is needed at all. Abortion care should be fully available in Northern Ireland, including the option of telemedicine, and we join those calling on the Department of Health in Northern Ireland to commission services as soon as possible.” 
 
The full statistics are online here: Abortion statistics, England and Wales: 2021
For further information, please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media statement
London, 30th March 2022
Today, the House of Commons has voted to keep the option of early medical abortion at home.

MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK Advocacy and Public Affairs Advisor Louise McCudden said:

“We are delighted that MPs have voted to keep the option of at-home abortion care.

“This was a vote for evidence over ideology, a vote for reproductive rights, and a vote for gender equality.

“Making this safe and popular service a permanent option will particularly benefit those who struggle to attend face-to-face appointments, including those in abusive relationships, those with caring responsibilities, and those without transport.

“Everyone chooses abortion for different reasons and under different circumstances. It is important that we can offer options that take into account personal circumstances – and that includes taking both pills at home.

“Trusting people to make these choices for themselves is a vital part of how MSI delivers high quality, responsive care for anyone who needs us.”
 
For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media statement
London, 9th March 2022
Today, MSI Reproductive Choices UK welcomes the launch of WHO’s new Abortion Care Guideline.
The guidelines, which draw on the latest scientific and programmatic evidence, set out over 50 recommendations to expand access to quality abortion care, including endorsing the use of telemedicine for early medical abortion. 
 
MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK Medical Director, Jonathan Lord, said:
“We are delighted that the world’s leading health body has formally endorsed the use of telemedicine for early medical abortion, adding to the global body of clinical evidence that shows it is safe, compassionate and often preferred.

We urge the UK Government to urgently review their recent decision to remove this essential service and listen to the evidence and the voices of medical professionals and women who overwhelmingly want this service to stay.
 
For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media statement
London, 24th February 2022
Today, the government has announced a six-month extension for at-home early medical abortion and has committed to keeping this under review.

In March 2020, the UK Government approved temporary measures to enable women and pregnant people to take both pills for early medical abortion (EMA) at home via telemedicine. Before this, only the second pill could be taken at home.

Following a public consultation, the government has been deciding whether to make this temporary improvement to abortion care permanent.
 
Jonathan Lord, UK medical director for MSI Reproductive Choices, said:
“The government has announced a six-month extension for at-home early medical abortion. Although they have committed to keeping this under review, we are disappointed that this service will not be made permanent. This would be indefensible and would go against overwhelming clinical evidence. The service has reduced waiting times and provided greater choice, which is particularly vital for vulnerable clients, such as women in abusive relationships or anyone else who can’t safely travel to a clinic.  

peer-reviewed study found that two thirds of women surveyed would choose to take their abortion pills at home regardless of COVID-19. If this service ends, everyone would be unnecessarily forced to travel to a hospital or clinic, for the sole purpose of swallowing a tablet which can be taken perfectly safely at home.  

This is a pro-choice country. It’s not too late for the government to listen to women who overwhelmingly want this service to stay.” 
 
For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Media Statement
London, 23rd September 2021 

If you are covering today’s decision by the High Court not to restrict abortion access in cases of foetal anomaly, you may find the following statement from MSI Reproductive Choices UK helpful.

Louise McCudden, MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK Advocacy and Public Affairs Adviser said:

“We welcome today’s High Court ruling. Deciding whether to continue with a pregnancy or not is sometimes a complex, personal decision, and people can need time to consider their options carefully, with all the available information. As a pro-choice organisation, we strongly support a compassionate, information-led approach to this deeply sensitive issue, rather than greater restrictions on abortion rights.”

“We support calls for up to date, accurate, non-stigmatising information about Down’s Syndrome to be made available to anyone who is considering an abortion on this basis. We also support and trust the person who is pregnant to then make whatever decision is best for themselves and their family free from judgement.”
 
For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

Press Release
London, 22nd July 2021
 
MSI Reproductive Choices UK launches new electronic patient records system

MSI Reproductive Choices UK (MSI UK) announces the launch of a new electronic patient record (EPR) system to ‘transform patient care’.

The new EPR will make it easier and quicker to book appointments, and by reducing the amount of time team members spend manually entering data, will increase the time available for direct nursing care. By fully integrating with other MSI systems, it will also ensure a seamless and joined-up experience, ensuring that patients’ preferences are shared and understood by all those caring for them. 
 
Empowering patients to take ownership of their care

Richard Bentley, UK Managing Director for MSI Reproductive Choices said: 
“This is a hugely significant moment for us. We are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality services for all and are proud to be adapting and innovating to meet our patients’ needs. Introducing a new electronic patient record system is not just about new technology, it is more about transforming patient care, providing services in the way that suits them and ultimately empowering patients to take ownership of their care.” 

MSI UK began work on the EPR with MAXIMS in April 2018 and has successfully delivered the new system despite the significant challenges of the pandemic, which saw a significant increase in people requesting support online. In response to the crisis, the leading abortion provider introduced digitally-enabled  healthcare via telemedicine; video consultations and webchat, providing over 4,000 chats per month to meet patients’ needs for privacy and make accessing information and services easier. By capturing data and insights, the new EPR will also enable MSI UK to continue enhancing its services and rollout future digital initiatives to meet patients’ ongoing needs.  
Richard Bentley added: “This will provide the foundation for all MSI UK’s future digital innovations in patient-centred care and signifies a major transformational change. We are committed to investing in technology and are confident it will lead to a better experience for our patients.” 
 
Other advantages of the new system include removing the need for multiple systems to manage care, a reduction in paper forms, less manual repetition, and better communication internally between departments and with patients. 
 
Aklis Miah, Programme Manager for MAXIMS, said:  
“Working on the MSI project has allowed us to showcase the versatility of the MAXIMS product whilst collaborating with a specialist organisation. The project has been a significant achievement and notable success to launch EPR during a pandemic. We would like to thank all involved in the project for their hard work and diligence and demonstrating the value of true partnership working. We’re looking forward to working together on future innovations.” 
 
Notes to Editors  
For interviews and further information please contact: 
Email: press@msichoices.org  
Tel: 07769 166 516 
For further information about IMS Maxims visit: www.imsmaxims.com  

Media statement
London, 9th July 2021
If you are covering the reclassification of the progestogen-only pill, you may find the following statement from MSI Reproductive Choices UK helpful.
 
Simphiwe Sesane contraceptive nurse and faculty registered trainer at MSI Reproductive Choices said:
“The reclassification of the progestogen-only pill, which can now be sold directly by a pharmacist without a prescription, is a great step forward. It will improve access and provide anyone seeking an extremely safe method of contraception more choice over how and where they access it. All too often our teams speak to people who have become pregnant while on contraception waiting lists and these challenges have only been exacerbated by the global pandemic, so this initiative is especially welcome in that context.
 
“However, while this reclassification is a positive move, cost will be a barrier for some. Progestogen-only contraception will continue to be available at no cost from GPs and sexual and reproductive health services, but ultimately we would like to see it available for free through NHS community pharmacies too.”
 
For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

MSI UK’s Medical Director Dr Jonathan Lord and Clinical Director Caroline Gazet respond to the troubling instances of ‘Abortion Reversal Treatment’ being offered to women and pregnant people by anti-choice groups in the UK.

Recent coverage from The Independent and Open Democracy has focused on the issue of so called “abortion reversal treatment” being offered by anti-choice groups around the world. 

The so-called treatment, which involves taking high doses of progesterone after taking the pills prescribed for a medical abortion, has not been proven to be effective in stopping miscarriages, and comes with a real risk of haemorrhage.  

We asked our medical director Dr Jonathan Lord and clinical director Caroline Gazet to comment on the issue.
 
“There is no evidence that it works, it can cause harm, and it can lead to haemorrhage”

It is not safe to prescribe progesterone as so-called abortion reversal. There’s no evidence that it works, it can cause harm, and it can lead to haemorrhage.
Women having abortions can be very vulnerable, so they must be looked after by healthcare workers who actually deal with abortion patients.”
– Caroline Gazet, MSI UK Clinical Director 
 
“Extremist anti-abortion sites only serve to fuel patients’ fears”
Although it is very rare for patients to change their minds over abortion, when it happens they are likely to be vulnerable and feel judged and stigmatised.

These extremist anti-abortion sites only serve to reinforce those emotions, and fuel patients’ fears. They do not offer independent non-directive counselling that would be available through NHS abortion providers, nor do they have access to the multi-disciplinary safeguarding systems that are an essential component of care.

Progesterone is unlicenced for this use and its safety has not been demonstrated. The only properly conducted trial had to be stopped owing to an unacceptable rate of haemorrhage, so we have no evidence that it works, and some evidence that its use could be harmful.

– Dr Jonathan Lord, MSI UK Medical Director
 
Abortion aftercare at MSI
At MSI, we know that different feelings may come up for people after an abortion, including relief and sadness. These are all normal things to feel. 
This is why we offer counselling as part of your abortion care with us: just call us on 0345 300 8090 to arrange a counselling appointment – lines are open 24 hours a day. Counselling is available over the phone, or face-to-face at one of our main clinics.

Once the first medical abortion tablet has been taken, if you change your mind and decide to continue with the pregnancy, we can’t guarantee a healthy pregnancy. We would advise you to see your GP as soon as possible to arrange antenatal care.

We’re here to talk at any time and can arrange post-abortion counselling, either face-to-face or over the phone. If you have any concerns, call our aftercare line on 0345 122 1441 to speak to a nurse.

Richard Bentley, MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK managing director said:  

“We are proud to be expanding choice, improving quality, and reducing waiting times, for anyone in Sussex in need of abortion care. Our new clinics and telemedicine service will provide timely, compassionate abortion care and advice, with advisers available over the phone or online.”

The four clinics commissioned by NHS Sussex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), will offer face to face appointments, while MSI’s award-winning telemedicine service will enable eligible patients to receive consultations over the phone or video call and be supported to have care at home.

MSI’s 24/7 helpline One Call (0345 300 8090) provides advice and consultations, with same day appointments available., An online chat service allows patients to consult quickly, confidentially and safely without the need to ring.

Unlimited counselling with independent counsellors registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy is also available.

People will also be able to access a full range of contraception methods through the services, as well as STI screening for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV.
 
Notes to Editors
For interviews and further information please contact:

Email: press@msichoices.org
Tel: 07769 166 516

London, 23rd June 2021 
Following recent coverage on the fitting of intrauterine contraception (IUC) and concerns surrounding associated pain, Julia Hogan (MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK contraceptive and sexual health nurse consultant) comments.

Statement on fitting intrauterine contraception (IUC) and pain relief:
“It is deeply concerning to read some women’s stories of having intrauterine contraception (IUC) fitted without appropriate pain relief. Women’s experiences need to be taken seriously, and their choices and feelings listened to.  At MSI we offer anyone opting for an IUC a choice of three types of local anaesthetic, including: a gel, a spray and an injection, as well as the option of taking painkillers, such as ibuprofen, an hour or two before the procedure. We also always have another health care practitioner in attendance to support the client and ensure they feel comfortable and in control throughout.

The experience of having an IUC fitted differs from person to person and as specialists in women’s health, our teams are committed to ensuring that every one of our client’s needs are listened to and respected. Out of the hundreds of people who have provided feedback on having a long acting form of contraception fitted at MSI this year, 98% rated the service either 4 or 5 out of 5 and said they would recommend it to a friend.”

– Julia Hogan, MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK contraceptive and sexual health nurse consultant. 
 
– Ends –
 
For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

London, 10th June 2021 – If you are covering today’s new Abortion Statistics for England and Wales, you may find the following statement and summary from MSI Reproductive Choices UK helpful.

>Data released today from the Department of Health and Social Care show that 210,860 abortions were reported in England and Wales in 2020, the highest since records began. This compares with 209,519 over the same period in 2019.

>88% of abortions were carried out under 10 weeks. This compares with 82% in 2019.

>The abortion rate for women aged under 18 has decreased compared to 2019. The largest increases in abortion rates by age are amongst women aged 30 to 34.

>Medical abortion accounted for 85% of abortions. This compares with 73% in 2019.

>Since telemedicine was introduced, taking both medications at home has become the most common procedure, accounting for 47% of all abortions during the period April to December 2020. At the same time, there has been a large increase in the percentage of medical abortion overall, accounting for 88% of abortions for the last three quarters (April to December) of 2020 compared to 77% of the first quarter (January to March) of 2020. This also compares to 74% for the last three quarters (April to December) of 2019.

>Despite abortion being decriminalised in Northern Ireland in 2019, there were 371 abortions for women from Northern Ireland in 2020. This compares to 1,014 in 2019.

Dr Jonathan Lord, UK Medical Director for MSI Reproductive Choices, said:
“These numbers come as no surprise. Access to contraceptive services, already challenging because of a sustained lack of investment, has become even more restricted during the pandemic, leaving many people facing unacceptable waits. This is even more stark for the most effective long-acting methods like the implant and coil.  At the same time, the anxiety and uncertainty caused by the pandemic has undoubtedly had an impact. The message we have heard loud and clear at our contraceptive clinics is that cut off from their support networks and anxious about how the crisis will affect them, the last thing many people want is to get pregnant.

“Yet, despite the challenges created by the pandemic, the figures released today are testament to the positive changes brought about by the introduction of telemedicine. Allowing people to opt for early medical abortion from the privacy and safety of their own homes has quite simply revolutionised abortion care and is so much kinder for patients. At a time when most NHS services were severely impacted by the pandemic, waiting times have reduced and people have been able to access abortion care earlier in their pregnancy.

“Definitive studies have shown that telemedicine has improved access to abortion care and is safe, effective and preferred by patients, with waiting times and the distress caused by an unwanted pregnancy considerably reduced. The American drugs regulator (the FDA) has used our evidence to lift their restrictions and we hope the Government here continues to stand with women and ensures this safe, effective and convenient service, already recommended by NICE before the pandemic, is made permanent.”
 
For further information please contact:
Email: press@mischoices.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 7769 166 516

MSI Reproductive Choices UK is featured in a new report out today which shines a light on the vital role independent providers of primary, community and diagnostic services have played in supporting the NHS during the most recent waves of the pandemic.

Follow this link to read the report.
MSI Reproductive Choices UK is featured in a new report out today which shines a light on the vital role independent providers of primary, community and diagnostic services have played in supporting the NHS during the most recent waves of the pandemic.

Following up on IHPN’s “Working together during covid19”, published last summer which looked at the key role independent providers of primary, community and diagnostics services played in supporting the NHS during the first wave of covid, this new report highlights how these partnerships have continued during the second and third waves of the pandemic to ensure patients have been able access the care they needed.

Today’s new report, “Working together during the second and third waves of covid19”, demonstrates the breadth of support that the sector has provided to the NHS and patients all across the country through what was arguably the most challenging winter period in the health service’s history. This partnership working has ranged from providing virtual support for vulnerable parents, young people and families across the country; deploying mobile clinical research facility to help support the development of the covid vaccine; rolling out the NHS’ Covid Oximetry @ Home service to support the treatment of patients with covid symptoms in their own homes; and the delivery of hundreds of thousands of  remote physio appointments. As well as MSI’s support delivering abortion and contraceptive care throughout the Covid crisis.

Independent primary, community and diagnostics providers have also made a significant contribution in helping the NHS clear the elective care backlog across a range of specialities including ophthalmology, gynaecology as well as key diagnostic scans tests – providing care closer to people’s homes and communities and reducing pressure on the acute sector.

Today’s report from IHPN also highlights the dedication of the tens of thousands of independent sector staff during the second and third waves of the pandemic. This includes through their through their contribution to the vaccine rollout, where significant numbers of independent sector staff volunteered to help with the NHS’s biggest ever vaccine drive and delivering thousands of jabs for housebound patients, the homeless and other vulnerable groups.

Richard Bentley, managing director of MSI Reproductive Choices UK said: “Allowing people to opt for early medical abortion from the privacy and safety of their own homes has quite simply revolutionised abortion care and is so much kinder for patients. We are proud that at a time when most NHS services were severely impacted by the pandemic, waiting times for abortion have reduced and people have been able to access care earlier in their pregnancy.”

Follow this link to read the report.
David Hare, Chief Executive of the Independent Healthcare Providers Network, said:

“I’m delighted to be launching our new report, “Working together…during the second and third waves of the pandemic” which showcases just some of the many inspiring partnerships between independent primary, community and diagnostic providers and the NHS during what has undoubtedly been the toughest winter in the health service’s history.

“Staff working in the independent community health sector really have gone above and beyond to deliver the best possible care for NHS patients – breaking down traditional organisational boundaries and collaborating in new and innovative ways with the NHS. This incredible work includes delivering support to covid patients in the community, providing much needed remote appointments and consultations and helping to clear the growing backlog of routine NHS procedures in the community.

“While covid cases have now thankfully reduced with pressures easing on the health service independent providers across the primary, community and diagnostics sector remain committed to supporting the NHS and building on this partnership working – locking in some of the key innovations that have come about during the pandemic and ensuring patients can access the care they need as the recovery of the health service continues.”

Today a coalition of charities and organisations have published a letter to the Health Secretary Matt Hancock MP demanding the continuation of telemedicine for early medical abortion beyond the pandemic.

Signatories include the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS), the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the Royal College of Midwives, Women’s Aid, Rape Crisis, Amnesty International, MSI Reproductive Choices UK, and Stonewall.

Telemedicine has made abortion care more accessible than ever before. It can’t be left behind with the pandemic. 
We’re proud to sign today’s open letter to Matt Hancock and Helen Whately asking them to stand with those that need abortion care and not to revoke access to telemedicine.

You can read the letter at this link: Coalition of charities call on Health Sec to permanently legalise at-home early medical abortion care

Abortion care in Somerset: expanding access to women in the area

MSI Reproductive Choices is now able to offer abortion care to patients in Somerset, expanding access to timely and quality care via telemedicine and face-to-face appointments.

Reproductive rights are human rights and the cornerstone of gender equality. This includes the right to have control over and decide freely and responsibly on matters related to sexuality, free from coercion, discrimination and violence.

MSI Reproductive Choices is one of the leading independent providers of sexual and reproductive health services in the UK, offering NHS-funded (as well as private) abortion and vasectomy treatments through their network of more than 60 local clinics all over England.

At-home abortion pills: Telemedicine and “pills by post”
Abortion is a common medical procedure: in the UK, one in three women will have an abortion by the time they are 45.
 
We offer medical and surgical abortions in our clinics all over England, including free counselling to anyone who would like to talk through their options and their emotions. 

In response to the current Covid 19 pandemic, the government has approved the use of telemedicine for early medical abortion care, which means that eligible patients are able to take both pills in their own homes, without attending a clinic. As a result, thousands of women have been able to access the timely, high quality care they deserve without to make unnecessary journeys to a clinic.  

Remember: you don’t need a GP referral to access NHS-funded abortion care. You can simply get in touch with an abortion provider of your choice and book a phone consultation. Follow this link for a useful read on how to choose the right abortion provider for you.  

Our clinics remain available for patients who need or prefer face-to-face care. Somerset patients will be able to access our Community Treatment Centres in: 
MSI Choices Westbury Community Treatment Centre 
MSI Choices Exeter Community Treatment Centre 
MSI Choices Bournemouth Community Treatment Centre 

Surgical abortion available in our Bristol Treatment Centre

For pregnancies over the 10 weeks limit needed to access a medical abortion, patients will be able to access our Regional Treatment Centre in Bristol

MSI Reproductive Choices has over 60 clinics across England, and our London treatment centres are available for anyone preferring this option.
 
To find out more about our location across England please follow our “Find us” link. 
 
How to get in touch 
There are a number of ways to get in touch with MSI Reproductive Choices: 
You can call the advice line at the following numbers: 
✔️ England, Scotland and Wales: 0345 300 8090 
✔️ Northern Ireland: 0333 234 2184 
✔️ Ireland: 1 800 200 374 
✔️ International: +44 (0) 1454 457 542 
 
Or, if you are not ready to make a call, you can choose to live chat with an advisor on the website: https://www.msichoices.org.uk/  
Useful links 
How to Get Abortion Pills during Covid19 Pandemic 
Everything you need to know about NHS-funded abortion care 
Everything you need to know about the abortion pill 
Abortion stories 
Share your abortion story 

About MSI Reproductive Choices

MSI Reproductive Choices is one of the UK’s leading providers of safe abortion and vasectomy. We believe that everyone has the right to make choices about their own body and future. Team members throughout our network of more than 60 clinics and confidential helpline, provide high quality, compassionate care to women and men, when and where they need them.

New abortion clinic expands reproductive choice in Cornwall

As COVID-19 continues to restrict movement, MSI Reproductive Choices is opening a new clinic in Cornwall offering greater access to NHS-funded early medical abortion.

The leading safe abortion provider will open a new abortion clinic in the heart of St Austell at the end of April, giving anyone seeking early medical abortion care in the county greater flexibility in both the timing and location of their treatment, reducing waiting times and expanding choice.

The clinic, commissioned by NHS Kernow Clinical Commissioning Group, offers weekly face-to-face appointments every Tuesday from 8am to 6pm, complementing existing services provided by Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.

While MSI’s award-winning telemedicine service will enable eligible patients to consult with a nurse over a phone or video call at a time that is convenient, and take both medical abortion pills in the comfort of their own homes.

Richard Bentley, MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK managing director said:

“Choice is fundamental to everything we do, and our new clinic and telemedicine service mean that people in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly will be able to access timely, compassionate abortion care and advice, without the added stress and difficulties of organising travel further afield. Anyone who prefers or needs surgical abortion will also have access to MSI’s state of the art centre in Bristol.”

The new clinic, situated in St Austell Community Hospital, provides a confidential, easily accessible setting that respects patients’ dignity and privacy. Anyone seeking abortion care will also be offered the full range of contraception methods, as well as STI screening for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV.

John Groom, NHS Kernow’s director of planned care and integrated care, said:
“The new clinic in St Austell builds upon the services already in place that give women a greater choice and decisions about their health, as close to home as possible.”

In addition to the highly rated care and support provided by the clinic’s nursing staff, MSI’s 24-hour helpline One Call (0345 300 8090) provides advice and consultations, with same day appointments available.
While, an online chat service allows patients to consult quickly, confidentially and safely without the need to ring.
Unlimited counselling with independent counsellors registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy is also available as part of the abortion treatment.


Notes to Editors
MSI’s St Austell clinic is situated in the St Austell Community Hospital, Porthpean Road, St. Austell, PL26 6AA. Patients can also access alternative clinics across the South West region or from MSI’s locations around the country. The decision to commission the service was made prior to the pre-election period or purdah and NHS Kernow will not be providing interviews.

For further information or interviews with MSI spokespeople please contact:

Name:                  Kylie Harrison
Email:                  press@msichoices.org
Telephone:         07769 166 516

Or visit our website at: www.msichoices.org.uk

About MSI Reproductive Choices

MSI Reproductive Choices is one of the UK’s leading providers of safe abortion and vasectomy. We believe that everyone has the right to make choices about their own body and future. Team members throughout our network of more than 60 clinics and confidential helpline, provide high quality, compassionate care to women and men, when and where they need them.

London, Friday, 19th February 2021
Abortion at home, with no hospital or clinic visit, is the preferred choice for 8 out of 10 women in the UK, new study shows

As the UK government consults on whether permitting women to take the first abortion pill at home should become a permanent measure, new data from MSI Reproductive Choices UK reveals it is the first choice for most women

Key findings from the MSI Reproductive Choices study being published in the BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health
8 out of 10 (83%) patients report preferring telemedicine during the pandemic

Two thirds (66%) would choose telemedicine again if Covid-19 were no longer an issue.

95.3% were able to speak with their trained health advisor in private. A further 4.6% were able to speak in private when they sought out a private space.

Over 1,200 women took part in the study. None of them was unable to talk privately, and, crucially, none of the ‘free text’ comments indicated any evidence of pressure, coercion, or privacy issues.

Read our study: “Acceptability of no-test medical abortion provided via telemedicine: analysis of patient-reported outcomes
 
Key findings from the national study being published in BJOG (International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology) 
Waiting times from when the woman has her consultation to treatment improved from 10.7 days to 6.5 days
Women are able to receive care much earlier in their pregnancy – with duration of the pregnancy at the time of the abortion significantly reduced.

The effectiveness of the treatment remained the same for abortions carried out through the traditional service and the telemedicine service.

There were no cases of significant infection requiring hospital admission or major surgery. Contrary to misleading claims, no person died from having an early medical abortion at home.

Read the national study: “Effectiveness, safety and acceptability of no‐test medical abortion provided via telemedicine: a national cohort study

New research from MSI Reproductive Choices UK shows that not only is early medical abortion clinically effective where the woman is trusted to take all the treatment course at home, but that 8 out of 10 (83%[i]) patients prefer it and two thirds (66%[ii]) would choose it again, should they ever need an abortion in future, even if Covid-19 were no longer an issue. The new programme means women can access all their care through telemedicine, without being forced to travel to an abortion centre just to take a tablet which has fewer adverse effects than paracetamol. 
 
Jonathan Lord, MSI Reproductive Choices’ UK Medical Director and co-author of the report said:

“It’s widely accepted that telemedicine is clinically effective. We can now say confidently that it’s also preferable for most patients.

“Our research shows that at-home abortion is a valued, private, convenient and more accessible option, especially for those who find in-clinic visits logistically or emotionally challenging. Removing the possibility of choosing telemedicine now would be to outright ignore those patient’s voices. We hope the government decides that it can continue to trust women to take their own decisions about what is best for their reproductive health.”

Early Medical Abortion at home via ‘telemedicine’ was initially introduced in England on 30th March 2020 as a temporary measure for the duration of the pandemic. MSI Reproductive Choices UK, one of the UK’s largest providers of abortion services launched its award-winning telemedicine early medical abortion service. The service was designed in line with guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the Royal College of Gynaecologists (RCOG) and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), one week later, on 6th April 2020.

As the UK government consultation on whether to make telemedicine permanent in England draws to a close next week, MSI UK’s new research published today in the prestigious BMJ Sexual and Reproductive Health journal adds to the growing global body of evidence in support of keeping this vital pathway beyond the Covid-19 pandemic.

Shorter waiting times
As well as being preferred by most patients, telemedicine has real clinical benefits. Research by MSI UK and the two other main abortion providers in England found it has reduced waiting times by over four days[iii], which in turn has reduced the average gestation at which abortion is carried out. In fact, the availability of telemedicine in England has led to 40% of abortions being provided at under six weeks’ gestation, compared with 25% when all women were forced to attend clinic in person[iv].

Private, confidential and safe
Telemedicine has also been shown to uphold the need for medical privacy, with MSI UK’s BMJ-SRH paper showing that:

3%[v] were able to speak with their trained health advisor in private. A further 4.6%[vi] were able to speak in private when they took other action (e.g. organised help with child-minding).

Over 1,200 women took part in the study. None of them was unable to talk privately, and, crucially, none of the ‘free text’ comments indicated any evidence of pressure, coercion, or privacy issues[vii].

Finally, an important finding from the paper is that telemedicine makes abortion safer and more accessible for people with safeguarding risks, such as an abusive partner who may coerce them into or out of having an abortion.
Jonathan Lord added: “Telemedicine has provided a lifeline for vulnerable women and girls who cannot attend consultations in-person. We have seen a major increase in safeguarding disclosures, including from survivors of domestic and sexual violence, as they can talk more freely about distressing and intimate details from the privacy of their own home.  This is especially true when the woman needs to keep her consultation private, as she can talk secretly to our safeguarding teams without the knowledge of a controlling partner.  

“We now ask the UK government to listen to the data, evidence and voices collected and make telemedicine a permanent service so that women and pregnant people can continue to choose the abortion care they want, need and deserve.  With the robust, peer-reviewed research that has now been published, we know that the only reason for government not to allow women to continue benefitting from this NICE-recommended care would be if it wants to obstruct them from accessing this essential healthcare.”
 
Case study
*Kay, 35, from a remote area of Cumbria, used MSI UK’s telemedicine service when she found out she was pregnant.


“During lockdown, I realised I was pregnant, but with health complications during my first pregnancy, I could not physically or mentally manage to carry a healthy pregnancy. I didn’t want to go through my GP as my line of work made privacy impossible and the other nearest clinic was over 100 miles away.  

“After three phone calls with very professional and understanding staff at MSI, I received my pills seven days after finding out I was pregnant. I was scared about possible side effects but a lovely nurse on the helpline reassured me. 

“Four and a half hours after inserting the pills, I began to pass the pregnancy. Later that night, I snuggled up with my daughter and read ‘Peace at Last’ and thought how thankful I am to MSI telemedicine for this peaceful moment, feeling safe and not afraid for my health or future.” 
 
Notes to Editors
Overall, 9,049 patients received telemedicine early medical abortion (EMA) between 6 April and 31 August 2020. Telemedicine EMAs accounted for 44% of all medical abortions that MSI UK provided in this period.
*Name has been changed to protect anonymity
 
For interviews and further information please contact:
Email: press@msichoices.org
Tel: 07769 166 516
 
[i] From the BMJ-SRH paper ‘Acceptability of no-test medical abortion provided by telemedicine: analysis of patient-reported outcomes’. A sample of all MSI UK’s telemedicine early medical abortion (EMA) patients between April and August 2020 were invited to opt into a follow-up call to answer clinical and satisfaction questions. A total of 1,243 (13.7% of all telemedicine EMAs) were successfully followed up, on average within 5 days post-procedure.
[ii] Ibid
[iii] From the BJOG paper ‘Effectiveness, safety and acceptability of no-test medical abortion provided by telemedicine: a national cohort study’ authored by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin, MSI Reproductive Choices, the British Pregnancy Advisory Service and National Unplanned Pregnancy Advisory Service. This analysed the outcomes of more than 50,000 EMAs between Jan and June 2020 both before telemedicine was introduced and after to compare data.
[iv]  Ibid
[v] From the BMJ-SRH paper ‘Acceptability of no-test medical abortion provided by telemedicine: analysis of patient-reported outcomes’. A sample of all MSI UK’s telemedicine early medical abortion (EMA) patients between April and August 2020 were invited to opt into a follow-up call to answer clinical and satisfaction questions. A total of 1,243 (13.7% of all telemedicine EMAs) were successfully followed up, on average within 5 days post-procedure.
[vi] Ibid
[vii] Ibid

London, Tuesday, 16th February 2021
The leading sexual and reproductive healthcare charity says protecting access to services is more important than ever.

MSI Reproductive Choices, a charity which provides abortion care services across the UK, has seen a 64%[i] increase in women and pregnant people reporting mental health concerns during the first ten months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The charity, which has doubled down on efforts to ensure continued access to its vital healthcare services says the global pandemic and national lockdowns are taking their toll on its patients, with reports of anxiety, depression or even suicidal ideation rising significantly amongst callers to its helpline, One Call, since March 23rd 2020, when national and regional lockdowns were first implemented.

The rise in callers struggling with poor mental health is also coupled with a 27%[ii] increase in the total number of overall safeguarding concerns flagged by MSI UK. This increase is almost exclusively amongst those over 18[iii].
The MSI UK team, which includes dedicated safeguarding nurses for adults and children as well as former police employees, are trained to spot vulnerable callers and work with the NHS, social workers and community mental health teams amongst others, to help keep women safe while they make the choices that are right for them.
Abortion care is so much more than just the medical procedure”

Amy Bucknall, Named Nurse for Safeguarding of Adults and Children for MSI Reproductive Choices UK said:
An unplanned pregnancy can be incredibly distressing and it’s even scarier during the COVID-19 pandemic. Women and pregnant people can’t lean on their usual systems of support, increasing the chance of anxiety and depression, exacerbating existing mental health vulnerabilities and leaving some people in crisis.
“We’ve had women crying down the phone because they are already under so much pressure and can’t cope with a pregnancy.  With on-going cuts to mental health budgets and support from mental health teams also disrupted during the pandemic, we’ve seen a huge increase in calls from women in need of extra support and protection from us.

“Abortion care is so much more than just the medical procedure and our strong safeguarding processes and highly-trained, independent counsellors are critical in ensuring that people are protected and have all the support they need during what can be an already difficult time.”

As an important element of its high-quality abortion care service, MSI UK’s team also offer wrap-around support for every single patient, including independent counsellors who patients can speak to at any point before, during or after their treatment.

The team also supports with external referrals to GPs and community mental health teams as well as signposts to organisations such as The Samaritans and Mind.

The introduction of telemedicine for early medical abortion care has helped ease some of this strain by allowing eligible women to access care safely and quickly in the privacy of their own homes. It has also meant that MSI UK can provide more straightforward care efficiently,  freeing up time for more complex cases.  

Rigorous safeguarding checks and risk assessments mean some women still need to attend clinics, especially if they have contacted MSI UK later in their pregnancies or due to their medical history.

Kirsty’s story
Kirsty had an early medical abortion during the pandemic, using MSI’s telemedicine service:
“During lockdown, I realised I was pregnant, but with health complications during my first pregnancy, I could not physically or mentally manage to carry a healthy pregnancy. I didn’t want to go through my GP as my line of work made privacy impossible and the other nearest clinic was over 100 miles away.

“After three phone calls with very professional and understanding staff at MSI, I received my pills seven days after finding out I was pregnant. I was scared about possible side effects but a lovely nurse on the helpline reassured me.

“Four and a half hours after inserting the pills, I began to pass the pregnancy. Later that night,  I snuggled up with my daughter and read ‘Peace at Last’ and thought how thankful I am to MSI telemedicine for this peaceful moment, feeling safe and not afraid for my health or future.”

While telemedicine has increased access for some patients, MSI UK is worried that with the pandemic lasting long beyond what anyone expected, more and more people will be struggling with their mental health as well as an unplanned pregnancy.

A statement from Richard Bentley, Managing Director MSI UK
Richard Bentley, Managing Director of MSI Reproductive Choices UK said:
“Mental health is often referred to as the shadow pandemic and at MSI UK, we are seeing increasing numbers of women and pregnant people who need more complex support.

“Abortion care is much more than a gynaecological procedure and our highly-trained team are committed to providing high-quality abortion and wrap-around care including dedicated safeguarding, specialist complex care and independent counselling so that patients are protected when making the choices that are right for them.  
“Now, more than ever,  it is vital that service commissioners and the government understand the rapidly changing landscape in abortion care and ensure services are commissioned in line with new NICE Guidance and Quality Standards so that MSI UK can continue to provide patients with the support they need and deserve.”
 
[i] MSI internal data for calls to their helpline, One Call, which contained a mental heath concern. Received between between March 24th, 2020 and December 24th, 2020 (total: 967 calls) compared with calls received between 23rd June, 2019 and 23rd March 2020 (total: 589 calls).
[ii] MSI internal data for calls to their helpline, One Call, which contained a safeguarding concern. Received between between March 24th , 2020 and December 24th, 2020 (total:4,931 calls) compared with calls received between 23rd June, 2019 and 23rd March 2020 (total: 3873 calls).
[iii] Ibid

London, Tuesday, 9th February 2021
MSI Reproductive Choices UK responds as Ealing Council renews England’s first ever abortion Buffer Zone around the MSI UK clinic in West London.

Today, Ealing Council made the decision to renew England’s first ever Buffer Zone around our clinic in West London.

Three years ago, our clinic in Ealing made history by implementing the first ever Safe Access Zone around an abortion clinic in England.

Today’s renewal of this ground breaking Buffer Zone will mean that people can continue to access essential healthcare services in private and with dignity, free from harassment and intimidation.

Media Statement
MSI Reproductive Choices UK Managing Director Richard Bentley said:
“Today’s decision is a huge relief and we would like to thank Ealing Council for continuing to listen to women’s voices and protect their right to legal healthcare free from harassment. No-one who comes to us has taken their decision lightly and many of those who are confronted by anti-abortion groups outside our clinics feel that their privacy has been seriously invaded at a time and place when they were most vulnerable.  Allowing this harassment to resume during the pandemic would only have led to more distress and anxiety.

“Over the last three years, this ground breaking buffer zone has made a transformative difference to the women who depend on our services, the local residents, and to our own team members, who work hard to create a welcoming haven for everyone who needs them.

“Ealing Council has already withstood numerous attempts to remove this vital protection.  Other councils contemplating similar action to protect clinics should be confident that these measures do work and help safeguard women accessing our services. We hope the Home Office also takes note, as it considers proposals for extending protection around abortion clinics nationally. It is the right thing to do.”

For further information and interview requests please contact:
Email: press@mariestopes.org.uk
Telephone: 07769 166 516 

London, Monday, 1st February 2021
New interactive ‘counsellor’ gives users personalised advice at their fingertips.

More than 50 years after it became widely available in the UK, the pill remains by far the most popular form of prescribed contraceptive. But there are concerns that some people are choosing it, simply because they are unaware what other methods are available.

The importance of being able to make an informed choice
When it comes to deciding on which contraception to use, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Everything from age to weight to lifestyle can affect which method best suits your needs. The most suitable contraception method will also change over time and whether you are planning to have children soon, later, or never at all. So, with more methods than ever to choose from, it’s vital that everyone has the information they need at their fingertips, to be able to make an informed choice.

At MSI Reproductive Choices UK, we know that learning about contraception makes people better equipped to have healthier, safer and more enjoyable sex lives, so we have launched a personalised contraceptive counsellor, which provides information on the main contraceptives available and allows users to compare options and weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Personalised advice for everyone
Best of all, the Choice Contraceptive Counsellor is interactive, meaning it can provide personalised advice that is right for each person.

From barriers methods, to hormonal methods, to permanent methods there really is something for everybody. Just fill out a questionnaire about your lifestyle, preferences, needs and medical history, and you’ll see a list of the most appropriate contraception options based on the World Health Organisation’s contraception guidance  and the UK’s medical eligibility criteria (UKMEC). And remember, if a certain method doesn’t fit your life or your body, it’s easy to find another one that will.

Try for yourself here, you might find the results surprising.
Contraception Counselling at MSI UK
We recently launched three contraception-only clinics in: 
Hemel Hempstead
Wakefield
Dagenham
If you live or are registered with a GP in these areas, contact us on our dedicated phoneline 0345 300 2350 for your contraception counselling appointment. The line is available Monday to Friday, 8AM to 4PM.  
Aside from these three clinics, MSI UK can only offer you contraception counselling as part of your abortion treatment. If you would like to access contraception counselling but are not having abortion treatment with MSI UK, ask your GP or local sexual health clinic about services in your area.

London, 27th November 2020
During the COVID-19 pandemic the government put in place a temporary measure in England, enabling women and girls to take both pills for early medical abortion (EMA) in their own homes up to 10 weeks’ (9 weeks and 6 days) gestation.

Before the pandemic, only the second pill for EMA could be taken at home ‒ women and girls attended an abortion service to take the first pill.

The temporary measure has been put in place to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 and ensure continued access to abortion services. It’s time limited for 2 years, or until the pandemic is over ‒ whichever is earliest.

The government is now seeking views on whether or not to make the temporary measure permanent.
Follow this link to read more on the consultation and to respond online.

MSI UK Media statement
If you are covering news of the UK Gov Open consultation on “Home use of both pills for early medical abortion” you may find the following statement from Marie Stopes UK helpful.
Dr Jonathan Lord, UK Medical Director for MSI Reproductive Choices, said: 

“Thanks to the introduction of telemedicine, thousands of women have been able to access the timely, high quality care they deserve. Waiting times and gestations have significantly reduced and the number of safeguarding cases identified has risen by 29%, meaning increased protection for vulnerable women. Had this service not been available, the consequences would have been catastrophic. 

“We are pleased to see the Government launch a public consultation to make permanent the home use of both pills for early medical abortion, and will work closely with them to ensure they have access to the data, evidence and voices needed to make the decision that is right for women.” 

Today, leading UK abortion provider Marie Stopes UK is putting choice front and centre with a new name – MSI Reproductive Choices.

London, Tuesday, 17th November 2020
The new name, which forms part of a wider change by its parent organisation, formerly known as Marie Stopes International, breaks with its connection to Marie Stopes, the woman and reflects the global organisation’s bold new vision for the future: that by 2030, no abortion will be unsafe and everyone who wants contraception will be able to access it.

Simon Cooke, CEO for MSI Reproductive Choices said: “Marie Stopes was a pioneer for family planning; however, she was also a supporter of the eugenics movement and expressed many opinions, which are in stark contrast to MSI’s core values and principles.  

“The name of the organisation has been a topic of discussion for many years and the events of 2020 have reaffirmed that changing our name is the right decision. As we look to the future, we are reflecting our fundamental focus in our new name, MSI Reproductive Choices.”

MSI was founded in 1976 by Dr Tim Black, Jean Black and Phil Harvey, who opened their first clinic on the site of the original Marie Stopes’ Mothers Clinic in central London, naming the organisation in recognition of the origins of the building and Marie Stopes’ pioneering work in family planning.

Cooke added: “Our founders believed that by providing high quality, compassionate and comprehensive contraceptive and abortion care, they could support women’s empowerment, and their vision of reproductive choice for all is just as relevant today as it was in 1976.

“This decade has opened with many uncertainties, but what we can be sure of is that the need for sexual and reproductive healthcare and rights will remain universal and urgent. The international community is failing the 25 million women who each year have no choice but to resort to an abortion that is unsafe, and the 230 million women and girls who want access to contraception but can’t get it. 

If no additional action is taken, the number of women and girls with no access could increase to 300 million by 2030, yet it costs less than 2 pence per day to protect a young woman from an unintended pregnancy, giving her the chance to stay in school, forge a career, support her family or even save her life.” 
 
Innovating to deliver choice in the UK
The new name also reflects MSI’s commitment to choice in all its forms right here in the UK, where despite being a pro-choice nation, stigma continues to leave many feeling judged, shamed or silenced.

Richard Bentley, MSI Reproductive Choices UK Managing Director said: “We are part of a global organisation that sees the impact of choice on women’s lives every day and that is just as true here in the UK, where throughout the pandemic our teams have worked around the clock to keep services open for everyone who needs them.
“Our commitment to choice extends beyond the fundamental belief in a woman’s right to choose, to supporting them to exercise that right free from harassment and abuse in a way that suits their health needs and preferences. I am proud to be putting choice front and centre of our name.”

In many parts of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted access to contraception and abortion services. However, following the first national lockdown in the UK, MSI worked closely with the Government to remove policy barriers and introduce telemedicine to help prevent unnecessary exposure to the virus.

Since April, this highly rated telemedicine service, has enabled more than 12600  women to have a phone consultation and take both sets of abortion pills at home, resulting in safer, more private care at earlier stages of pregnancy.

MSI has also introduced a live webchat service and video consultations to give women control and information at their fingertips, ensuring they never feel alone in making their reproductive choices.

Following new research revealing more than a third (36%) of UK women were unsure how to access contraception during the pandemic, the leading abortion provider has also launched its first two standalone contraceptive clinics to ensure women have access to the most effective long acting methods including the coil and implant.
 
Caroline Gazet, UK clinical director for MSI Reproductive Choices said:
“Throughout my career as a doctor, I have seen the power that access to reproductive choice has. From protecting women who will go to any lengths to end an unintended pregnancy, to the opportunities available for young people when they can access stigma-free contraceptive services.

“With women and girls in the UK facing daunting challenges including continuing inequality and the fallout from the global pandemic, there is a long road ahead, but the choice in our name is a promise to anyone who needs our services that we are here to support you to access the care you need on your terms.”
 
Notes to Editors
For interviews and further information please contact:
Email: press@mariestopes.org 
Tel: (+44) 07769 166 516
About MSI Reproductive Choices
MSI is a global organisation providing contraception and safe abortion services to women and girls in 37 countries. We believe that every woman and girl must determine her own future, and the high-quality services we provide give a woman the power to pursue her dreams for herself and her family.

Manchester city council agreed to introduce a Safe Access Zone around our clinic in Fallowfield. Today’s decision is a huge victory for the women of Manchester who will finally be able to access the healthcare to which they are legally entitled free from intimidation and harassment.

 
Richard Bentley, Managing Director of Marie Stopes UK said:
“Today’s decision is a huge victory for the women of Manchester who will finally be able to access the healthcare to which they are legally entitled free from intimidation and harassment.

“Our team in Manchester do everything they can to create a welcoming haven where women feel supported in their choices, and during the pandemic have been working around the clock to keep services open for everyone who needs them. It is disgraceful that they have been forced to witness this undermined by the cruel tactics of the radical anti-choice groups standing outside. We are incredibly grateful to Manchester Council for recognising the emotional distress that these groups create and for taking proportionate action to protect the privacy and dignity of women accessing our clinic.

“However, while this decision will protect the wellbeing of everyone coming to our Manchester centre, the vast majority of abortion clinics throughout England and Wales remain defenceless. The fact is whether it’s one woman being harassed or 1,000, it’s still too many. It is time for the UK government to end the postcode lottery of harassment and legislate for Safe Access Zones outside all registered abortion care providers in the UK.”
 
What is a Safe Access Zone?
Safe Access Zone, also commonly called a Buffer Zone, is an area surrounding the abortion provider premises where specific gatherings and activities that are known to have a detrimental effect on clinic visitors would be prohibited. The official zone is a designated distance around the premises to protect service user’s privacy and confidentiality.

The evidence shows that designated Safe Access Zones are the best way to protect abortion care service users by prohibiting specific activities that cause our clients and team members to feel intimidated, distressed, harassed, afraid and alarmed.

The introduction of Safe Access Zones is based on the principle that the right of assembly and free speech of individuals and groups can be exercised somewhere that does not discriminate against women and pregnant people, or infringe their right to privacy and family life.

You can read our official Position Paper on the need for National Safe Access zone on our Advocacy and Positions page.

Media statement 
London, 25th September 2020 – If you are covering news that today the Court of Appeal has dismissed a legal challenge over Government changes to abortion rules made during the coronavirus pandemic, you may find the following statement from Marie Stopes UK helpful.

Marie Stopes UK’s Medical Director Jonathan Lord said:
“We’re extremely pleased that the Court of Appeal has dismissed this challenge in favour of the thousands of women who want and need to access early medical abortion care at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Home use of safe and effective abortion medication has reduced waiting times, meaning women can complete their abortion at an earlier stage of their pregnancy.    We have seen even lower complication rates in what was already a very safe and effective treatment.   Home use is especially important to those in vulnerable groups or who may face coercion from abusive partners to continue an unwanted pregnancy, and for them the whole telemedicine programme has been revolutionary.

“It’s disappointing that radical anti-choice groups still try to impose their minority and restrictive views on women who are making choices about their own bodies, especially when at the same time we need to maintain COVID-19 social distancing rules for the safety of our patients and staff.

“We hope the government will act on the evidence emerging from our experience of home use and ensure that women continue to have timely access to safe abortion both during the pandemic and beyond.”

New data released ahead of World Contraception Day, reveals UK women’s needs have been neglected during the pandemic – with young women and girls worst affected

London – Friday, 24th September 2020:
More than a third (36%)[i] of UK women are unsure how to access contraception during the coronavirus pandemic, new research from MSI has revealed.

The survey of 1,000 UK women, conducted by IPSOS Mori on behalf of the leading sexual and reproductive health charity revealed almost a quarter (24%) of UK women have needed to access contraception during COVID-19, but many have been left in the dark about how and where to do so.

Less than half (46%)[ii] thought they could access contraception through their GP.
Less than half (48%)[iii] thought they could access contraception through a pharmacy.
More than a third (35%)[iv] of the women who tried to access a contraceptive service, thought that the service had got worse.
 
Julia Hogan, lead contraceptive nurse for Marie Stopes UK, said:
“Women’s need for contraception does not stop during an emergency, but once again, women and girls have been disgracefully neglected. Many have been left confused about where they can access contraceptive services during COVID-19, unable to use the method of their choice or worryingly, unable to access a service at all.
“All too often our teams speak to women who have become pregnant while on contraception waiting lists and with no end in sight to the pandemic, it is more important than ever that women know how and where to access the contraception that is right for them.”
 
A postcode lottery of care
The diversion of resources to the COVID-19 response combined with chronic underfunding of sexual health over the last 10 years have seen GP surgeries and sexual health centres across the country cancelling ‘non-urgent’ contraception appointments, especially for the most effective long-acting methods in a postcode lottery of care. Some have had to close their doors completely.

Young women and girls aged 16-24 were more likely (34%)[v] than women, 24-35 (29%)[vi] to report a need for contraceptive services, with 23%[vii] of women aged 35-44 reporting a need for contraception during the pandemic.  

More than a third (35%)[viii] of the 200 women surveyed who tried to access a contraceptive service, thought that the service had got worse, with around 1 in 7 (14%)[ix] stating that there were no appointments available in their area, and just under 1 in 10 (9%)[x] stating the clinics in their area were closed or that the contraception service and/or product they needed was unavailable.

Suzi, 29 from London was due to have her hormonal coil removed in March when the pandemic hit:
“I was meant to have my hormonal coil removed in March as it had run out, but then we went into lockdown. My local sexual health clinic said they weren’t doing any non-urgent procedures and that it would cover me until March 2021. I was worried about it not working or getting infected, but I wasn’t sure what to do after they said they couldn’t remove it or where else to go, so I just had to hope it would be OK.

“I recently found out that I can get my coil removed at the GP surgery, but they won’t put a new one in so I will have to go on the contraceptive pill – which I don’t really want to do. The nurse who advised me also told that it was untrue my coil would last until March 2021 and I should be using other contraception such as pills or condoms.”
“I don’t want to get pregnant, especially during a global pandemic and it’s really confusing being passed from pillar to post when I’m trying to be responsible and keep myself protected.”
 
What women want
The survey also asked women what they want from a contraceptive service in a bid to understand how to improve access to contraception for women across the country.
The research revealed that:

44%[xi] of women want healthcare providers to give out longer supplies of pills or condoms
Nearly a third (31%)[xii] want easier access to free-short term contraception at pharmacies, by removing the need for a prescription
Over a third (34%)[xiii] of women would like more information on how to access services remotely
Just over a quarter (26%)[xiv] of women want more information about where they can access contraceptive services more generally
Just over a fifth (21%)[xv] of women wanted longer opening hours and a fifth (20%)[xvi] thought more appointments would improve access to contraceptive services in their area

New contraception clinics 
In response to the crisis in contraception access, leading abortion provider Marie Stopes UK has launched two standalone contraceptive clinics, one in Hemel Hempstead and one opening in Wakefield providing the most effective long-term methods, including the coil and the implant. It is keen to work with more local authorities to ensure more women are protected with the contraceptive method of their choice.

Caroline Gazet, Clinical Director for Marie Stopes UK said:
“Lack of investment in contraceptive services has led to a postcode lottery of care, with poor access and unacceptable waits, particularly for the most effective long-acting methods like the implant and coil – women are then shamed if they need to access abortion care.

“The global pandemic has only exacerbated how difficult it can already be for women to access contraception when they need it most, but by listening to what women want and working in tandem with providers, local authorities can ensure that women have access to the full range of contraceptive methods available, so they can choose the contraception that is best for them.”

Marie Stopes UK is here for you if you need to access abortion careTo book a consultation call their advice line on 0345 300 8090.

If you are in Wakefield or Hemel Hempstead and would like to book a contraception telephone consultation, call the dedicated advice line on 01454 808100, Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm.


Notes to Editors
The research was carried out by Ipsos MORI on behalf of MSI.  Ipsos MORI interviewed a sample of 1,000 women aged 16-50 in the UK. Research was conducted using its online i:omnibus between 29th July – 3rd August 2020. Data has been weighted to the known offline population proportions for age within gender, region, working status and income. 
 
For interviews, photography and further information please contact:
Email: press@mariestopes.org
Tel: 07769 166 516
 
Case Studies
Suzi, 29, from south West London was due to have her hormonal coil removed in March when the pandemic hit:  
“I was meant to have my hormonal coil removed in March as it had run out but then we went into lockdown. My local sexual health clinic said they weren’t doing any non-urgent procedures and that it would cover me until March 2021. I was worried about it not working or getting infected, but they said they couldn’t remove it, so I just had to hope it would be OK.  

“I recently found out that I can get my coil removed at the GP surgery, but they won’t put a new one in so I would have to go on the contraceptive pill – which I don’t really want to do. The nurse who advised me also told me that it was untrue my coil would last until March 2021 and I should be using other contraception such as pills or condoms.” 

“I don’t want to get pregnant, especially during a global pandemic and it’s really confusing being passed from pillar to post when I’m trying to be responsible and keep myself protected.” 
 
 
Beth, 29, also from North East London decided to have her non-hormonal coil removed in during lockdown due to persistent problems: 
“I had persistent and recurring thrush since I’ve had the copper coil in and felt that there was a link. I was repeatedly told by my GP that it wasn’t the case despite having read contradicting information online. It was frustrating not being listened to. 

“Following more problems during lockdown, I requested to get it removed. I initially had to wait as I was told they weren’t doing non-emergency appointments, but I then managed to find an appointment at a sexual health clinic.
“I wish there was more information around contraception, how to access it and where – it feels like women’s sexual health and contraception isn’t considered a priority when it should be. I also think there should be more time to sit down and go through your options properly, so you’re able to make the choice that is right for you. Although there is a lot of information online now, as a younger woman, it felt like the pill was the only option when there are plenty of others out there.  
 
 
About Marie Stopes UK
At Marie Stopes UK we are unapologetically pro-choice. As part of the global organisation MSI, we believe that everyone has the right to make choices about their own body and future. As one of the UK’s leading providers of safe abortion and vasectomy, our team members provide high quality, compassionate care for the women and men who need us.
 
About MSI
MSI is a global organisation providing personalised contraception and safe abortion services to women and girls. Our local teams of professionals are passionate about the work they do in communities across 37 countries. The services they provide give a woman the power to choose when she has children so that she’s free pursue her plans and dreams for herself and her family.
 
About World Contraception Day
World Contraception Day takes place on September 26th every year. The annual worldwide campaign centres around a vision where every pregnancy is wanted. Launched in 2007, WCD’s mission is to improve awareness of contraception and to enable young people to make informed choices on their sexual and reproductive health.
 
World Contraception Day Coalition partners are:
Centro Latin Americano Salud y Mujer (CELSAM); Deutsche Stiftung Weltbevoelkerung (DSW); EngenderHealth (EH); European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health (ESC); Family Planning 2020 (FP2020);  International Federation of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (FIGIJ);  International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF); Marie Stopes International (MSI); Pathfinder International; Population Services International (PSI); The Population Council; The United States Agency for International Development (USAID); United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); Women Deliver (WD).
 
[i] The research was carried out by Ipsos MORI on behalf of Marie Stopes.  Ipsos MORI interviewed a sample of 1,000 women aged 16-50 in the UK. Research was conducted using its online i:omnibus between 29th July – 3rd August 2020. Data has been weighted to the known offline population proportions for age within gender, region, working status and income. 
[ii] Ibid
[iii] Ibid
[iv] Ibid
[v] Ibid
[vi] Ibid
[vii] Ibid
[viii] Ibid
[ix] Ibid
[x] Ibid
[xi] Ibid
[xii] Ibid
[xiii] Ibid
[xiv] Ibid
[xv] Ibid
[xvi] Ibid

London, 10th September 2020 – If you are covering today’s new Abortion Statistics for England and Wales during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may find the following statement and summary from Marie Stopes UK helpful.
 
Today, the Department of Health and Social Care published Abortion statistics during the coronavirus pandemic: January to June 2020:

Between January to June 2020, there were 109,836 abortions performed on residents of England and Wales. This compares with 105,540 over the same period in 2019.

Between January to June 2020, medical abortions accounted for 82% of abortions. This compares with 72% of abortions over the same period in 2019.

Between April and June 2020, there were 23,061 medical abortions where both medicines (antiprogesterone and prostaglandin) were administered at home, this represents 43% of abortions during this time. The percentage of abortions using this method increased between April and June, accounting for 33% of abortions in April and increasing to 51% of abortions in June.

Between January to June 2020, 86% of abortions were performed at under 10 weeks. This compares with 81% in January to June 2019, an increase of 5 percentage points.

Almost 50% of abortions were performed before 7 weeks from January to June 2020, compared to almost 40% for the same period in 2019.

Dr Jonathan Lord, Medical Director for Marie Stopes UK, said:
“I am not surprised by today’s figures considering the lack of investment in contraceptive services over the last 10 years. Even before the pandemic, women faced long waiting times for the most effective methods and this has been made significantly worse by the COVID-19 crisis, leaving many women struggling to access any contraception at all.

Women’s sexual health needs do not diminish during a pandemic, and these figures confirm the crucial need for women of all ages to be able to access high-quality contraception and abortion services.

Telemedicine is the single biggest enhancement in abortion care for years and has allowed tens of thousands of women across the UK, from those caring for children and elderly relatives to women at risk of violence if they leave the house, to receive the healthcare they need and deserve during the pandemic.

“Waiting times have reduced significantly, easing the distress of an unwanted pregnancy and reducing the already low complication rate even further. We have also seen a 77% increase in the number of safeguarding cases identified, meaning more protection for vulnerable women and girls who can now access help in private without the need to inform a coercive partner or divulge intimate details to family.

We hope the Government continues to stand with women and ensures this safe, effective and convenient service is made permanent.”

Marie Stopes UK telemedicine fact box:
Marie Stopes UK launched its telemedicine service on 6th April, which has enabled more than 9,600[i] clients to have a phone or video consultation and take both sets of abortion pills in the privacy of their own home.
Clients have been incredibly satisfied with the telemedicine service, with 98%[ii] of clients surveyed rating their experience as good or very good and 99.9%[iii] of clients reporting they had adequate privacy.

Waiting times have significantly reduced, with almost half of women (46%)[iv] able to have a detailed consultation with a clinician within one day, compared with 9%[v] of non-telemedicine clients.

Gestational age has reduced, with 56%[vi] of women having their telemedicine abortion before 6 weeks compared to 37%[vii] previously. Lower gestational age reduces the already low complication rate of early medical abortion to 2.5%[viii]. Complications include retained products of conception (1.5%)[x] and failed termination of pregnancy rate (1.0%)[xi] which can be treated by minor, planned procedures. NICE also states that every day of gestational reduction saves the NHS £1.6m[xii].

Marie Stopes UK has found safeguarding via telemedicine using a telephone or video consultation to be highly effective, as women and girls who are too frightened to attend consultations in person can talk more openly and privately. Safeguarding concerns identified have increased by 77%[xiii] during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic and include major safeguarding cases such as a 12-year-old being subject to rape by two relatives.

For further information and interviews please contact:
Email: press@mariestopes.org.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)7769 166 516

[i] Marie Stopes UK internal appointment data from its Client Record System for clients who have used the Telemedicine Service since its introduction in April 2020 to 4th September 2020.
[ii] Marie Stopes UK Internal data from its ‘Welfare check’ telephone questionnaire conducted by Rightcare. Fieldwork was conducted between between 21st April 2020 and 4th September 2020. Total sample size was 1,246 respondents who had used the Telemedicine service, with 1,223 respondents rating the service good or very good.
[iii] Marie Stopes UK Internal data from its ‘Welfare check’ telephone questionnaire conducted by Rightcare. Fieldwork was conducted between between 21st April 2020 and 4th September 2020. Total sample size was 1,246 respondents who had used the Telemedicine service, with 1,245 respondents stating they could talk privately.
[iv] Marie Stopes UK internal appointment data from its Client Record System for clients who have used the Telemedicine Service since its introduction in April 2020 to 4th September 2020.
[v] Marie Stopes UK internal appointment data from its Client Record System for clients who had an early medical abortion requiring attendance at a clinic
[vi] Marie Stopes UK internal data analysing the safety and effectiveness of telemedicine from one cohort of clients who have used the Telemedicine Service over a two month interval since its introduction in April 2020 compared with a control group cohort who needed an early medical abortion prior to telemedicine (Jan – Feb 2020). MSUK complication rates include ‘retained products of conception’: 14.8/1000 of 4862 telemedicine clients, compared with 23.0/1000 of 8140 clients (Early medical abortion pre-COVID) and ‘continuing pregnancy (Failed termination of pregnancy): 9.5/1000 of 4862 telemedicine clients, compared with 20.5/1000 of 8140 clients (Early medical abortion pre-COVID). Other complications, including missed diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy, significant haemorrhage or pain requiring admission, were recorded in 3 or fewer cases with no difference between the telemedicine and control groups.
[vii] Ibid
[viii] Ibid
[ix] Ibid
[x] Ibid
[xi] Ibid
[xii] NICE guideline NG140 – Abortion care, 2019.
[xiii] Marie Stopes UK internal data for calls to their helpline, One Call, which contained a safeguarding concern. Received between 6th December 2020 and 5th April 2020 (total: 1,583 calls), compared with calls received between 6th April 2020 and 4th September 2020 (total: 2,805 calls).

New video consultation service offers ‘gold standard’ in abortion care. The new service means clients can speak with  an abortion care nurse or midwife via a secure video link, eliminating the need to travel long distances and enabling clients to be treated earlier in their pregnancies.
Innovation in abortion care

Leading abortion provider Marie Stopes UK has launched an innovative video consultation service offering women seeking abortion care, personal, face-to-face care in their own homes.

The new service means clients can speak with an abortion care nurse or midwife via a secure video link, eliminating the need to travel long distances and enabling clients to be treated earlier in their pregnancies.

Telemedicine is widely recommended as best practice to improve access to abortion care. But, during COVID-19 when social distancing is so important and people are fearful of attending clinics, it is even more essential, particularly for those in vulnerable groups or who may face coercion from abusive partners to continue an unwanted pregnancy.

Thanks to its introduction at the start of lockdown, over 25,000 women across the UK have been able to access timely, high-quality care that they might otherwise have been denied. And now, women unable to travel can receive the same personal care they would in a clinic by chatting to an abortion care nurse ‘face-to-face’ via a secure video link.

How video consultation works
The video consultation, which is conducted via Microsoft Teams, follows security best practice. Nurse control of the video consultation ‘lobby’ means that a client cannot enter without nurse approval, and as with all telemedicine consultations, the client’s unique pin and password are collected before commencing the appointment.

The availability of an app also means women can access the consultation via their smartphones – making it easier to talk in private. This is especially important to vulnerable clients who may find it difficult to attend clinics without telling a coercive partner.  

Face-to-face contact with the client, even when remote, also helps Marie Stopes UK’s highly trained nurses identify any safeguarding concerns as well as signs that the client may need to come in for a scan.
 
Lucie, an abortion care nurse for Marie Stopes UK said:
“The consultations are much more personal and I have found that clients are more willing to lead the conversation than over the phone. I can also talk my clients through procedures using information booklets for example or showing them different contraception options.

“At the end of every consultation, I ask the client whether, in more normal times, they would prefer to come into the clinic, so far everyone has said that it was just as personal via video, but without the disruption of organising childcare, finding transport, having to find parking or even face the trauma of anti-choice protesters.”
 
Faster and safer access to abortion care
The decision to allow women in England seeking an early medical abortion to have their consultation performed remotely and be sent pills in the post has led to significantly reduced waiting times.

Data also shows that the number of women in England and Wales seeking illicit drugs from overseas abortion charities has reduced from an average of 36 women per month to zero since the introduction of telemedicine, meaning that women are protected by the safeguarding and aftercare provided by a regulated service.
The new video consultation service sits alongside MSUK’s new online chat service, which allows clients to discuss their options confidentially and safely, without the need to ring first.

Dr Jonathan Lord, Medical Director for MSUK, said:
“It’s important that we find innovative ways to support women who want to access abortion care, especially for those who are vulnerable or who find travel difficult.   Video consultation is an excellent option we can offer that should help many women receive care personalised to their needs.

“We know that people feel more relaxed and are able to talk more freely and privately in their own home.   With our new video service, they can now speak ‘face-to-face’ with our trained advisors and nurses as if they were there in the room with them.”

Marie Stopes UK is here for you if you need to access abortion care. To book a video consultation call our advice line on 0345 300 8090.

London, 9th July 2020: If you are covering radical anti-choice group, Christian Concern’s, “investigation” into the MSUK abortion care telemedicine service, you may find the following statement useful.

Richard Bentley, Managing Director for MSUK and Dr Jonathan Lord, Medical Director for MSUK, said:
In March, the UK government introduced temporary guidance to allow women to take medical abortion pills at home, up to 10 weeks gestation. The move, in line with pre-existing international and national guidance, was welcomed by health providers as a way for women to receive care during COVID-19, without needing to travel or putting additional strain on the health system. 

It is therefore disappointing that a radical anti-choice group, Christian Concern, which campaigns specifically to restrict lawful access to lifesaving abortion care, is now trying to derail this policy with a so called ‘investigation’ that saw three women abusing the system to obtain abortion pills. 

Early medical abortion at home is safe, effective and convenient. Thanks to its introduction, 25,000 women across the UK have been able to access timely, high-quality care. During these exceptional times, as a result of telemedicine provision, days spent waiting for an abortion have crucially been reduced meaning women can access abortion care earlier in their pregnancies.  Had telemedicine not been available, there is a real danger that some women may have turned to illicit sources for abortion pills and would not have had the safeguarding and aftercare provided by a regulated service.  

Christian Concern stated that there were no checks done on whether the women who called MSUK were registered with the GP practice they provided, and that there were no checks done to establish the women’s  identities or their gestation. 

However, the process of providing a registered GP is not a legal requirement.  Direct access to healthcare services is considered best practice and GPs are often not directly involved in services. Abortion care is also considered urgent care, meaning that abortion providers are legally obliged to provide care, whether a woman is registered at a GP service or not, or even if she is not a UK resident.  

As an abortion care provider, MSUK also does not perform identity checks – the same as all NHS healthcare settings in the UK. We trust women to give us honest information and, in our experience, the only people who knowingly abuse that system are, as in this case, anti-choice organisations. 

We are also still seeing many clients in our clinics as needed or requested. Of the total number of medical abortions MSUK has provided since 6 April 2020, approximately 53% have been via telemedicine and 47% through a face-to-face consultation.  

Reassuringly, of those women who have come into a clinic to be scanned, only 1% had a scanned date which would have resulted in a different treatment being offered to comply with the current law, although there would have been no safety concerns if they had used the medical abortion service. 

As other organisations have identified, since introducing telemedicine services, MSUK has seen more than a 20% increase in the number of safeguarding disclosures, including of domestic abuse and sexual violence, allowing us to intervene and support these vulnerable women.   

All women are counselled on what to expect during their abortion, given details of how to take the medicine and advised to call back if they are worried about anything with access to specialist 24-hour advice.  
Christian Concern also stated that the investigations show that telemedicine can be manipulated by a third party, to obtain abortion pills for an underage sexual abuse survivor. This suggestion is also unfounded as our teams deal directly with individuals. 
 
In fact, what we have seen, is that underage survivors can find it less frightening to talk about distressing and intimate details over the phone. Our teams were recently able to safeguard a 12-year-old girl, who disclosed to us that she was being raped by two relatives. This is the reality of safeguarding in abortion care. 

Further, we also know that controlling pregnancy and access to contraception is a method of control widely used by perpetrators of domestic abuse and, in our experience, we are more likely to encounter women who are planning to end their pregnancy without their abusive partner or family’s knowledge, than we are to encounter a woman who has been coerced into attending a clinic when she wishes to keep her pregnancy.

At a time when COVID-19 has caused unprecedented pressure on healthcare services, many, including the NHS and GPs, are using telemedicine as their main patient interaction. In England, Matt Hancock said ‘we have moved to a principle of digital first in primary care and with outpatients, unless there are clinical or practical reasons, all consultations should be done by telemedicine.’  In doing so, providers are trusting that their patients are offering up accurate medical information when accessing legal healthcare, which the women who called on behalf of Christian Concern did not do.  

At MSUK, we are proud to be the first national abortion provider to have introduced telemedicine and have been able to support women in a proactive, responsible, safe and caring way. Our evidence backed approach to providing telemedicine is entirely in keeping with other NHS providers and GPs across the country. 
All the ‘investigation’ by Christian Concern demonstrates, is that three women pretending to be distressed and in need of an abortion, were able to access safe and effective abortion care without risk to themselves or their families, in line with current UK regulations. 

For further information and interviews please contact:
Email: press@mariestopes.org.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)7769 166 516

Overall safeguarding concerns have increased by 20%[i], warns the charity

Marie Stopes UK, a charity which provides abortion care services across the UK has seen a 33%[ii], increase in domestic violence reports, as the unprecedented lockdown restrictions force women to isolate with their abusers.
These figures form part of a 20%[iii] increase in overall safeguarding concerns during the first two months of lockdown, as calls to the Marie Stopes advice line spike.

Other increases include women clients under the age of 18 (10%)[iv] and women who are experiencing mental health problems (7%)[v].

The team at Marie Stopes UK’s contact centre, which includes dedicated safeguarding nurses for adults and children as well as ex-police support workers, are trained to spot vulnerable callers, and work with the NHS, social workers and the police amongst others, to help keep women safe while they make the choices that are right for them.

The team have been a critical part of major safeguarding cases, including identifying a human trafficking ring resulting in the rescue of a number of trafficked women.  

Amy Bucknall, Named Nurse for Safeguarding of Adults and Children for Marie Stopes UK, said:
“It is an incredibly scary time for women who need to access abortion care during COVID-19 and we’re seeing an increase in cases where women need extra safeguarding protection.

“In one case, a 19-year-old girl disclosed that if her family found out that she was pregnant outside of marriage, significant harm would come to her. But as she was isolating with her family, it was incredibly difficult for her to leave the house. We had to work closely with protective agencies to get her the support she needed in order to make her choice.  

“Our strong safeguarding processes are therefore critical in ensuring that vulnerable women can access the care they need in a timely manner, free from coercion and harm from others.”

Over the last two months, calls to the Marie Stopes UK helpline have risen by more than 3500 to almost 45,000[vi], possibly due to the large numbers of women struggling to access contraception during the coronavirus pandemic and the fact that most Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are now allowing women to select the provider with the shortest waiting times. The charity is also taking on additional caseload from NHS trusts, who have suspended their work to focus on COVID-19.

Safeguarding these women has become even more complex during the crisis, with public services stretched to the limit and normal safeguarding procedures, such as social workers accompanying clients to clinics, disrupted.
Women are also unable to lean on their usual support networks, leave their houses for extended periods of time or even access public transport if they do need to travel, exacerbating already existing vulnerabilities.

Jonathan Lord, Medical Director for Marie Stopes UK, said:
“Controlling pregnancy and access to contraception is a method of control widely used by perpetrators of domestic abuse. In the long-term, we worry that women will be forced to continue pregnancies they do not want to keep, as abuse prevents them from accessing essential healthcare services during lockdown.

“This will have significant long-term consequences for already vulnerable women, making it even harder for them to avoid ongoing abuse.”

The introduction of telemedicine, which enables women seeking an early medical abortion to take both sets of abortion pills at home, means some vulnerable women, including those with a coercive partner, are now able to access care more discretely.

Marie Stopes UK have found safeguarding by telephone to be highly effective as women and girls who are too frightened to attend consultations in person can talk more openly and privately over the phone. They have identified some major safeguarding cases through confidential phone calls, including harrowing cases such as a 12-year-old being subject to rape by two relatives.

However, other women still need to attend clinics, especially if they have contacted Marie Stopes UK later in their pregnancies. Here, shockingly, they can sometimes still be subject to abuse from anti-choice groups, who despite strict social distancing measures, are still harassing women outside of Marie Stopes’ clinics.

Shanaaz Mohammed, clinical team leader at Marie Stopes UK’s Central London clinic, said:
“Unbelievably, since lockdown began, anti-choice individuals and groups have continued to gather outside our clinics, completely ignoring social distancing rules implemented by the government and essentially being a law unto themselves. We have had to call the police on two occasions due to the anti-choice group singing hymns and chanting loudly.

“This means that not only are women struggling with the impacts of COVID-19 and the complexity of accessing care during the pandemic, but they are also facing abuse and harassment when they do attend clinics. It’s horribly unfair and particularly distressing for women who may already be vulnerable.”

 
[i] Marie Stopes International internal data for calls to their helpline, One Call, which contained a safeguarding concern. Received between January 23rd, 2020 and March 22nd, 2020 (total: 1,523 calls), compared with calls received between March 23rd, 2020 and May 22nd, 2020 (total: 1,830 calls).
[ii]  Marie Stopes International internal data for calls to their helpline, One Call, which contained a domestic violence concern. Received between January 23rd, 2020 and March 22nd, 2020 (total: 236 calls), compared with calls received between March 23rd, 2020 and May 22nd, 2020 (total: 314 calls).
[iii] Marie Stopes International internal data for calls to their helpline, One Call, which contained a safeguarding concern. Received between January 23rd, 2020 and March 22nd, 2020 (total: 1,523 calls), compared with calls received between March 23rd, 2020 and May 22nd, 2020 (total: 1,830 calls).
[iv] Ibid
[v] Ibid
[vii] Marie Stopes International internal data for calls to their helpline, One Call, received between January 23rd, 2020 and March 22nd, 2020 (total: 41, 260 calls), compared with calls received between March 23nd, 2020 and May 22nd, 2020 (total: 44, 861 calls).

Marie Stopes UK launches new web chat service in response to rise in domestic violence during lockdown
Marie Stopes UK’s new live web chat service offers a ‘lifeline’ to vulnerable women facing an unintended pregnancy during Covid-19.

London, 30th June 2020

The leading abortion charity’s new support service has been launched in response to the anxiety that many women have reported during lockdown about reaching out for support over the phone and being overheard by their children or partner.
This is particularly acute for young people living at home with their parents and can be dangerous for those experiencing domestic abuse.

Amy Bucknall, Named Nurse for Safeguarding of Adults and Children for Marie Stopes UK, said:
“During the pandemic, we’ve seen a significant rise in the number of women turning to us for support online as well as a 33% increase in domestic violence reports, so improving access was essential. Our new online chat service is a lifeline for clients, allowing them to seek information confidentially and safely and explore their options with our expert support staff with just the click of a button.

“We know that domestic abuse can often start or escalate during pregnancy and making a phone call to an abortion provider can be difficult, if not dangerous, but it’s vital that women are able to reach out for support. Our nurses and midwives are often the first and only point of contact that a woman will make, and this service will help them get in touch with us in a safe and timely manner.”
 
About the new live web chat

The new online chat service, which provides the option of browsing frequently asked questions, aims to meet clients’ needs for privacy, make accessing information faster and provide another way to get in touch without the need to ring. It also makes communication easier for people who do not speak English as their first language, allowing them to use programmes like Google Translate to chat with an adviser.

The new support service will initially be available between 8am and 4pm, Monday to Friday at www.mariestopes.org.uk. For anyone who prefers to speak over the phone, Marie Stopes UK’s advice line remains open on 0345 300 8090.

– Ends –
Notes to Editors
For interviews and further information please contact:
Email: press@mariestopes.org
Tel: 020 7034 2377 or 07769 166 516 (out of hours)

22.06.2020: Extending choice for women in Devon

London, March 27th, 2020
Marie Stopes UK is delighted to announce that we are opening three new clinics in Devon offering women in the region increased access to NHS-funded early medical abortion.
Abortion in Devon: Exeter, Paignton and Plymouth new clinics

new clinic will open in Exeter on April 1with another to follow in Paignton in the coming months. Marie Stopes UK is also taking over an existing clinic in Plymouth, offering evening appointments giving women greater choice and flexibility in both the timing and location of their appointment.

Choice is fundamental to everything we do, and our three new clinics mean that women in Devon will be able to access much needed care and advice from highly trained, dedicated health care professionals, without the added stress and difficulties of organising travel further afield. Women opting for surgical abortion will also have access to Marie Stopes UK’s state of the art centre in Bristol.”

The new clinics commissioned by NHS Devon Clinical Commissioning Group are situated in centrally located health centres, providing a confidential setting that respects women’s dignity and privacy and are easily accessible from all over the county.

Women seeking abortion care will also be offered the full range of contraception methods, as well as testing for chlamydia.

In addition to the professional care and support provided by the clinic’s nursing staff, Marie Stopes UK’s 24-hour confidential advice line One Call (0345 300 8090) is available day or night every day of the year, offering women appointments, advice and unlimited counselling with independent counsellors registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy.

London, 11th June 2020 – If you are covering today’s 2019 Abortion Statistics for England and Wales from the Department of Health and Social Care, showing that abortion rates are at their highest level since 2008, with an increase in rates for all ages 25 and above, you may find the following statement from Marie Stopes UK helpful.
 
Marie Stopes UK’s Medical Director Jonathan Lord said:
“Today’s figures are not surprising and underline the crucial need for women of all ages to be able to access comprehensive contraceptive services and abortion care, from the point at which they become sexually active right through to the menopause.

“Efforts to reduce teenage conception rates have led to a sharp decline since 2005, but the contraceptive needs of women in their twenties, thirties and forties, including those who already have children, have been sadly neglected.
“The main issue is the lack of investment in contraceptive services, which has led to poor access and unacceptable waits, particularly for the most effective long acting methods, such as the implant and coil. This is incredibly frustrating not least because investment in contraceptive care is one of the most cost effective public health measures. It’s vital that we protect the funding needed to continue the progress made over the last 10 years and give women the contraceptive services they deserve.”

London, Sunday, 5 April 2020:
Marie Stopes UK (MSUK) will start a new telemedicine service to deliver early medical abortion care from Monday 6th April 2020.

The change comes after the Government issued the temporary approval of home use for both stages of early medical abortion in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following initial screening, a phone consultation and all necessary safeguarding checks, eligible women will be able to take both sets of abortion pills at home without attending a clinic.

From Monday 6th April 2020, Marie Stopes UK (MSUK) will start a brand-new telemedicine service to deliver early medical abortion care.

The change comes after the Government issued the temporary approval of home use for both stages of early medical abortion in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This means that following  a screening process to check for eligibility  and a full nurse led telephone consultation including all necessary safeguarding checks, eligible women under 9 weeks 6 days gestation will be able to take both sets of abortion pills, Mifepristone and Misoprostol, in the privacy of their own home without attending a clinic.  All compulsory requirements of the Abortion Act 1967 will continue to be completed.

The move will prevent thousands of women each month from having to make medically unnecessary journeys while travel restrictions are in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting social distancing measures and reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19 amongst women, clinic team members including doctors, nurses and midwives and the wider public.
 
Jonathan Lord, Medical Director for Marie Stopes UK, said:
“We know first-hand the stress, anxiety and desperation that many women seeking abortion care are experiencing during the COVID-19 pandemic, and we are delighted that we have been able to implement an effective telemedicine service in response to the crisis.

“As an organisation, we are more committed than ever to ensuring women receive the high-quality abortion care they deserve and we will continue to work to the best of our ability to ensure safe and equal access to this essential healthcare service, whatever the circumstances.

“This would not have happened without a huge joint effort from both the independent women’s healthcare sector and the NHS, and we look forward to working in continued partnership to deliver the best possible care.”
The new measures are fully in line with the UK NICE Guidance on Abortion Care, which recommends telemedicine as a safe and effective way to manage early medical abortions as well as ensure timely and equal access to abortion care.

Marie Stopes UK will follow new recommendations from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists & Royal College of Midwives, using screening questions to determine eligibility for an early medical abortion without a scan and signposting women to telemedicine if no risks – such as an ectopic pregnancy – are identified,  
 
Women will then receive the abortion pills through the post as a part of a Medical Abortion Pack or be able to collect them from their preferred clinic. The Medical Abortion Pack includes both sets of pills, a guide to taking the tablets at homecontraception, an STI kit if this is permitted by the NHS in the woman’s area, pain relief and an aftercare booklet.
 
Marie Stopes UK hopes the new telemedicine service will bring much needed relief to the thousands of women each month who access abortion care, as well as ease the pressure on abortion providers, so that they can continue to deliver high-quality abortion care to all who need it.
 
The measures also bring abortion care in line with other healthcare sectors, including the NHS, where telemedicine is already being used as best practice in response to the current COVID 19 crisis.

Women whose pregnancies are past 9 weeks and 6 days will still have to come to clinic to take their tablets in England & Wales, however, in Scotland they can remain safely at home until 12 weeks. Those who wish to attend a clinic for a surgical abortion will still be able to, and at-risk women identified by Marie Stopes’ highly trained medical and clinical staff, will also continue to attend clinics to be seen by nurses and midwives for treatment.  
 
Women will be able to access Marie Stopes UK’ brand-new telemedicine service from Monday 6th April 2020. Anyone seeking advice about an abortion can contact Marie Stopes UK’s free advice line on 0345 300 8090 24hours a day, seven days a week.

Get in touch info at this link.
Online Medical Abortion
Call our 24/7 advice line 0345 300 8090 to arrange a phone consultation and receive your abortion pills at home. Read more about Online Medical Abortion at this link.

London, Tuesday 31st March 2020
Today, the new abortion regulations for Northern Ireland have come into effect – they allow abortions in all circumstances up to 12 weeks of pregnancy and also allow for abortions up to 24 weeks into a pregnancy, if there is a risk to the physical or mental health of the woman or girl.

However, it will be up to the Northern Ireland Assembly’s Department of Health to commission abortion services, meaning abortion care will not be readily available in Northern Ireland until services are put into place.

What happened in October 2019? Abortion Decriminalisation
In October 2019, abortion was decriminalised in Northern Ireland with the requirement that the UK Government must bring about new regulations for abortion care in the country by 31st March 2020. The decriminalisation and promised regulations meant that soon many women will be able to access services in their own country that had not been able to due to the draconian, Victorian era abortion law. This meant that women and girls could, for the first time, have an abortion without any fear of criminality, and any ongoing prosecutions were stopped.

Today, the new abortion regulations for Northern Ireland have come into effect – they allow abortions in all circumstances up to 12 weeks of pregnancy and also allow for abortions up to 24 weeks into a pregnancy, if there is a risk to the physical or mental health of the woman or girl. There is no time limit for if an abortion is needed to save the life of a woman, or if there has been a diagnosis of fatal fetal abnormality or severe fetal impairment.
The regulations also outline that abortions can be carried out in GP premises, clinics provided by a health and social care trust and HSC hospitals. The home use of the second medication used in an early medical abortion has also been approved.

What happens now?
However, it will be up to the Northern Ireland Assembly’s Department of Health to commission abortion services, meaning abortion care will not be readily available in Northern Ireland until services are put into place.
Women from Northern Ireland will still be able to access care in England until the UK government is “confident that service provision in Northern Ireland is available to meet women’s needs”.

Travelling to England during Covid-19
However, with travel to England restricted due to the COVID-19 crisis, we know this means that travelling is not a safe or viable option, and women in Northern Ireland will be left without any access to abortion care.
Whilst our clinics are still providing care to women from Northern Ireland where possible, we have called on policy makers to allow women in Northern Ireland to take both sets of early medical abortion pills at homeas is now the case in England.
 
Richard Bentley, Managing Director of Marie Stopes UK said:

“We are extremely pleased to see the long-awaited legal framework for accessing abortion care in Northern Ireland – for too long, women in the region have been treated as second class citizens and this day would not have arrived were it not for brave and resilient abortion reform campaigners.

“However, while the legal framework is a significant step in the right direction, abortion care cannot be delivered without services in place, and with travel to Marie Stopes’ clinics in England restricted due to the COVID-19 crisis, thousands of women and girls will be held in limbo, forced to continue an unwanted pregnancy or to buy abortion pills illegally online.

“We now ask that policy makers act on science, evidence and expert clinical advice to limit the spread of COVID-19 and allow women in Northern Ireland to take both sets of early medical abortion pills at home, as is now the case in England.

“We are also disappointed that the framework does not include safe access zones to protect women seeking abortion care from harassment outside of clinics,  as we know from our experience of providing care in Belfast, that aggressive anti-choice groups relentlessly target both women and providers and will most likely continue to so while they remain unprotected.”

Raise your voice: ask the Health Minister to take action
Our friends and colleagues at Alliance for Choice launched a petition to allow Remote Abortion Provision in NorthernIreland.

This petition is to the Northern Ireland Health Minister, Robin Swann, to ask that they allow home use of abortion pills for women in Northern Ireland during the Covid-19 crisis, in recognition that women and pregnant people cannot travel to England for care.
https://my.uplift.ie/petitions/allow-remote-abortion-provision-in-ni.

London, Monday 30th March 2020
The UK Government has approved this morning the use of telemedicine for abortion care, meaning that:
Women and girls will be able to take both pills for early medical abortion up to 10 weeks in their own homes, without the need to first attend a hospital or clinic;

Registered Medical practitioners (doctors) will be able to prescribe both pills for the treatment of early medical abortion up to 10 weeks from their own homes.

We are open as usual and here if you need us
Marie Stopes UK is doing everything we can to be able to offer this service as soon as possible and meanwhile our clinics are open as usual and here for anyone who needs us.
Get in touch
 
Commenting the news, Jonathan Lord, Medical Director for Marie Stopes UK said: 
“The government’s decision to allow women in England to take both sets of early medical abortion pills at home during the COVID-19 crisis, shows that they value both women’s health and that of hardworking abortion care staff, who have continued to deliver essential healthcare, despite a global health pandemic. We now stand in full solidarity with women and girls in Northern Ireland seeking the same protection.

“This would not have happened without such a mobilised and quick campaign from health experts, campaigners and journalists alike, that made it impossible for the government to deny the medical and moral force of the case for early abortion care at home.  

“By listening to expert clinical advice, the government has ensured that the next round of #ClapforCarers will be from the 200,000 UK women who need to access safe abortion services each year.”