St Helens Borough supports National HIV Testing Week

Article date: 11 February 2025

HIV testing is quick, free, and confidential. People living with HIV may not develop symptoms for many years. If they don't get tested, they may not know they have HIV and, therefore, would not be able to access the effective treatments available.

Testing and early diagnosis means people can get treatment for their HIV, which enables them to stay well and to live healthy lives. Successful treatment reduces levels of HIV in a person's blood to undetectable levels and this also means they cannot transmit the virus to others.

In support of this crucial awareness campaign, St Helens Integrated Sexual Health Service has organised a number of testing opportunities at various venues during the week. The service is partnering with Sahir House to host an information stall at Whiston Hospital to promote and signpost access to HIV testing in the borough. They will offer advice on where, how and why to get a test and offer condoms, leaflets and safer sex information packs.

Sahir House is a community organisation supporting LGBTQ+ communities and people living with HIV across the Liverpool City Region.

Anyone in St Helens who wishes to have an HIV test can attend the 'walk-in and wait' clinic at St Helens Integrated Sexual Health Service or can book an appointment by calling 01744 646 473. During HIV Testing Week, they can also visit www.startswithme.org.uk to order a free HIV testing kit.

The team has also planned some targeted testing events for a range of venues across the borough including Saints, St Helens College, Evolution XL Gym, and Hope House. 

Councillor Sue Murphy MBE, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health, said:

"We're pleased to support National HIV Testing Week as early detection is vital in ensuring people receive timely treatment, improving long-term health outcomes, and reducing the spread of the virus. We are committed to overcoming the stigma associated with HIV that may prevent people coming forward for testing.

"Our Integrated Sexual Health Service is dedicated to increasing awareness and accessibility to all testing services, giving residents the opportunity to take control of their health."

Ruth du Plessis, St Helens Borough Council's Director of Public Health, added:

"St Helens Borough Council has also made the commitment to joining Liverpool and other Cheshire and Merseyside councils in becoming a signatory to the HIV Fast Track Cities initiative, with the goal of ending new HIV transmissions by 2030. Increasing uptake of HIV testing will be central to this work."