World AIDS Day is a global movement to unite people in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
Medical advances mean people with HIV in the UK can expect a long and healthy life and that we have the tools to stop HIV transmissions for good. However, HIV continues to be highly stigmatised and misunderstood with many people delaying getting a diagnosis and accessing treatment.
This World AIDS Day, we're encouraging people to smash the stigma by getting tested for HIV.
Getting tested is quick, free and easy to do. It is the only way to find out if you have HIV. If you are living with HIV, starting treatment early means you can live a full and healthy life.
Axess sexual health service in Warrington aims to make testing quick and easy in a supportive environment. The service is based at Bath Street Health and Wellbeing Centre, Legh Street, WA1 1UG, and offers a range of services, such as sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, including HIV testing, HIV treatments and emergency contraception.
The Drugs and alcohol recovery service CGL, based on Bold Street, also offers HIV testing.
It’s recommended that anyone who is sexually active and has changed partners in the last 12 months, not used a condom when having sex or shared needles should get tested.
Free self-sampling HIV test kits are available for Warrington residents via the SH:24 online sexual health screening service.
Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, cabinet member for health, wellbeing and social care, said: “It’s important that we use World AIDS Day to remind ourselves that HIV has not gone away – we still need to raise awareness, fight prejudice and support those living with and affected by HIV and AIDS.
“Getting tested is free and easy to do. You will usually get your results the same day or within a few days of testing from an experienced member of staff who will be able to offer guidance and support.
“Knowing your status is a really important step in fighting HIV and AIDS and reaching the national goal of ending new HIV transmissions by 2030.”
Dr Martyn Wood, Consultant in HIV Medicine at axess sexual health said: “World AIDS Day gives us a moment to reflect on those that we have lost to HIV and AIDS, but it is also a time to celebrate how far we have come in the treatment and prevention of HIV infection.
“Those living with HIV can now lead full, healthy lives with minimal monitoring. Being on effective treatment means HIV cannot be passed on. If you are not living with HIV, preventative medication can keep you HIV negative.
“It’s important we all reflect this World AIDS Day, but also take the opportunity to test for HIV and know our own HIV status.”
In September 2024, Warrington Health and Wellbeing Board endorsed the intention for Warrington to be included in the Cheshire and Merseyside Region's Fast Track Cities coordinated activities toward ending HIV transmission by 2030.
You can get involved in World AIDS day by wearing a red ribbon – a great way to raise awareness. The red ribbon is the symbol of support for anyone who has been affected by HIV and AIDS.