17 Nov National HIV Testing Week launches in Southend
National HIV Testing Week takes place from 18 to 25 November and is run by Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) on behalf of HIV Prevention England (HPE).
The week encourages people be tested for HIV, particularly those from the most at-risk groups, including men who have sex with men (MSM) and black African men and women.
This year, the campaign is calling on people to ‘Give HIV the finger’ by taking a simple, painless and quick finger prick HIV test.
Terrence Higgins Trust, the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity, will be delivering HIV awareness sessions in partnership with other SHORE organisations, in a variety of locations across the town, informing people of the benefits of testing, prevention, and the advances in medication.
THT will also be offering residents of Southend the chance to take a confidential, rapid HIV test at Southend Forum on Thursday 23 November, from 10:30am-3:30pm which, thanks to new advances, gives a result in just 60 seconds. The public will also be able to access free condoms and lubricant, which is the most effective barrier to prevent transmission.
For anyone interested in testing who is unable to attend on the day, testing is also available at Shore clinics across Southend, and can be booked via the booking line on 01702 456899.
