National HIV Testing Week 2025: partnering with local councils

Funded by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and delivered by Terrence Higgins Trust, as part of HIV Prevention England, this annual event is supported by many councils.

The aim is to encourage people to get tested and know their HIV status. The campaign's primary message is clear: testing is quick, free, confidential, and the only way to know your HIV status.

An estimated 4,700 people are currently living with undiagnosed HIV in England, including an estimated 1,600 Gay, bisexual and other men-who-have-sex-with-men, 600 Black African heterosexual men and 1,000 Black African heterosexual women. Testing rates for HIV in sexual health services are still below 2019 levels, particularly among heterosexuals.

HIV can affect anyone, and early diagnosis is key to managing the condition effectively. With effective treatment, individuals with HIV can live healthy lives and reduce the virus to undetectable levels, meaning they cannot transmit it to others. This concept, known as "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U=U), is a cornerstone of the campaign.

It’s easier than you think to get and take an HIV test, whether you use a sexual health clinic, a GP or prefer the convenience of using an at-home test kit Local councils play a pivotal role in the success of National HIV Testing Week. By collaborating with community organisations and through their locally commissioned sexual health services, councils can help increase awareness and accessibility of HIV testing. Here are some ways local councils are contributing:

• Essex is supporting the event through the Essex Sexual Health Service, which offers free and confidential HIV testing and support.
• Somerset is backing the initiative with a series of free HIV testing sessions in various locations, including Bridgwater, Taunton, Wells, and Frome. East Sussex are promoting the "I test" campaign, encouraging residents to get tested regularly for HIV. They offer free finger-prick tests that can be ordered online and delivered discreetly.
• In Birmingham the Fast-Track Cities+ Birmingham campaign will feature a dedicated bus that will tour the city raising awareness of HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C – urging people to get tested.
• Brighton and Hove councillors visited the HIV-charity Terrence Higgins Trust to get tested for HIV and are encouraging people across the city to get tested themselves.

National HIV Testing Week 2025 is a vital initiative to help end new HIV transmissions by 2030. With the support of local councils and community organisations, we can increase testing rates, reduce stigma, and ensure that everyone knows their HIV status. Remember, testing is the first step towards a healthier future for all.

Councillor David Fothergill
Chairman
LGA Community Wellbeing Board