“This will ensure that less people are living undiagnosed with HIV, and that they can live long, healthy lives, with no risk of passing the virus on to future partners.”
Terrence Higgins Trust have launched a HIV self-testing programme for gay/bisexual men and trans women.
Britain’s leading HIV and sexual health organisation will supply the free kits (provided by BioSure) for people who wish to test themselves in the privacy of their own homes. The results also come back within minutes.
Those who order a kit will be entitled to support from THT Direct, the charity’s information and advice line who are there to provide support for the customer. The kits will also be available for any UK resident who identifies as black African.
CEO of Terrence Higgins Trust, Ian Green, stated: “One of our strategic aims as a charity is to end HIV transmission in the UK, and increasing testing among at risk communities is an effective way to achieve this.
“We know that different methods of testing suit different people, and so we’re thrilled to launch this programme for those who prefer to use self testing kits at home but who perhaps can’t afford it.
Green said the programme will enable more people from communities at risk to know their status, and receive effective treatment if required.
“This will ensure that less people are living undiagnosed with HIV, and that they can live long, healthy lives, with no risk of passing the virus on to future partners.”
There are reportedly 10,400 people in the UK who are unaware that they’re living with HIV, which means they aren’t taking vital medication, and could also be unknowingly passing the virus on.
See if you’re eligible for a free self testing kit at test.tht.org.uk.
Related: This new campaign is aiming to increase HIV testing in black gay men.
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