National HIV Testing Week is back with a new look for 2023. From Monday 6 February, people across mid and south Essex are being called upon to get tested and know their status – because HIV can affect anyone.
The campaign promotes regular HIV testing among the most-affected population groups in England. Regular HIV testing helps to reduce the number of people living with undiagnosed HIV and those diagnosed late.
In mid and south Essex, you can order a free HIV test at home kit from SH:24. It’s a great opportunity for you to get tested and encourage others to do the same, particularly those from groups most affected by HIV, including gay and bisexual men and people of Black African ethnicity.
The free test kits are small enough to fit through a letterbox. They arrive in plain packaging with information and signposting to support alongside the test. If a positive or ‘reactive’ result is given, then a confirmatory test in a sexual health clinic is necessary to make sure the result is correct.
If you live in the Southend area you can also attend free HIV testing clinics at the Civic Centre on 8 February and 22 March. No appointment is required, just ask for Helen Brook at reception. Results are instant and confidential.
For more information on sexual health services across mid and south Essex visit: https://www.midandsouthessex.ics.nhs.uk/health/choose-well/health-choose-well-sexual-health/