Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (HIOWH) Sexual Health and HIV Service (SHHS) are highlighting the National annual campaign for HIV Testing week, running between 10-16 February 2025.
Local health organisations and community partners across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are joining forces to promote HIV Testing Week 2025, an annual initiative aimed at raising awareness about HIV and encouraging regular testing. Taking place from 10 February to 16 February, this year's campaign emphasises the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in improving individual health outcomes and preventing further transmission.
Knowing your HIV status is a crucial step in protecting your health and the health of others. With advancements in testing and treatment, living with HIV, when on effective treatment is no longer a life-threatening condition. Early diagnosis allows individuals to access life-saving medication and support services, enabling them to live long and healthy lives.
We understand that some people may feel hesitant or nervous about getting tested and that stigma can still impact on people’s perceptions of HIV, accessing sexual health services and knowledge of steps people can take to reduce risks.
Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can access testing services without fear of judgment or stigma. We want to emphasize that testing is a simple and confidential process, and our team is here to provide information and support every step of the way.
Accessing sexual health services across Hampshire, Portsmouth, Southampton and the Isle of Wight are free and confidential and getting a test is easy.
- Order a HIV & STI test online www.letstalkaboutit.nhs.uk/phr
- Book an appointment in a clinic: www.letstalkaboutit.nhs.uk/clinic-finder-search/
- Free HIV tests are also available online at: Free HIV Kits for testing at Home | Freetesting HIV
In addition to testing services, HIV Testing Week 2025 features a series of educational events and awareness campaigns designed to increase HIV testing, reduce stigma, educate people about the importance of testing and promote accessible free testing.
If you want to find out more, Lets Talk About It run regular free workshops for parents and carers. For more information visit: Home :: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare Sexual Health.
To order your own free home STI testing kit or to make an appointment please visit our website HIV - Testing :: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare Sexual Health
More information
- To learn more about condoms or to order free condoms by post visit: Contraception :: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare Sexual Health.
- For HIV Facts: HIV - The Facts :: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare Sexual Health.
- Free RSE resources: Skills & Confidence in Relationships and Sex Education Training :: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare Sexual Health.
- To find out more about becoming a part of the condom distribution scheme and pregnancy testing click here: GIO Scheme :: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare Sexual Health.
- Terrance Higgins Trust run a dedicated HIV helpline which you can call on 0808 802 1221 or visit THT Direct helpline | Terrence Higgins Trust