As part of our Health & Wellbeing priorities, the Bolton Muslim Welfare Trust Health Forum undertook a dedicated Sexual Health Engagement Project commissioned by Public Health Bolton. The aim was to better understand the perceptions, barriers, and experiences surrounding sexual and reproductive health within Bolton’s Muslim communities.

Working sensitively and respectfully, we engaged more than 60 women across different ages and neighbourhoods through online surveys, group sessions, and one-to-one conversations. Engagement took place in a range of community settings, including schools, libraries, community hubs, madrasahs, and informal gatherings. This approach ensured that voices were captured in environments where women felt safe, confident, and respected.

The findings highlighted that while sexual health is often considered a private matter, there is a strong appetite for confidential, culturally sensitive, faith-informed education and support. Women identified challenges such as language barriers, limited awareness of services, discomfort discussing sexual health with male clinicians, and the impact of stigma within families and wider society.

Importantly, the project also surfaced opportunities. Participants expressed interest in women-only clinics, multilingual resources, faith-aligned education, and increased involvement of trusted community figures. The role of Imams, female scholars, and local champions was seen as crucial in bridging trust and access.

Despite isolated attempts at misinformation during delivery, the leadership of the Health Forum responded transparently and professionally, maintaining confidence, clarifying aims, and reinforcing the importance of respectful engagement on sensitive topics.

This report offers a valuable evidence base for future work. It demonstrates that sexual health can be discussed constructively within faith-based communities when delivered with compassion, dignity, and cultural understanding. Our recommendations call for stronger collaboration between Public Health, primary care, schools, and community institutions, ensuring that women and families are empowered to make informed decisions about their wellbeing.

By listening first and acting together, Bolton can build an inclusive model of sexual health support that strengthens trust, protects dignity, and improves health outcomes for all.