By Talking Health TV –

This week is HIV Testing Week, and Kirklees Council is once again working in partnership with The Brunswick Centre and health partners to raise awareness about the importance of regular testing.

Early detection ensures that individuals living with HIV can access treatment, enabling them to live as long as anyone else. Effective treatment also prevents transmission by reducing the virus to undetectable levels in the blood.

As part of the campaign, free and confidential HIV testing sessions will be available at selected locations. The test is a simple finger-prick procedure, with results ready within five minutes.

Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Director of Public Health at Kirklees Council, emphasised the significance of making testing more accessible:

“I am pleased that we are able to offer people in Kirklees this quick and simple test. By removing barriers to HIV testing like stigma, discrimination, and access to physical services, we are helping people to get treatment if needed and working towards reducing new transmissions.”

John McKernaghan, Chief Officer of The Brunswick Centre, highlighted the importance of knowing one’s HIV status:

“It’s never been easier to test for HIV, and HIV Testing Week is a crucial part of promoting the importance of knowing our HIV status.

“Testing is free and confidential, and with rapid community-based testing, results can be ready within five minutes. Anyone with a reactive result will get rapid access to HIV treatment and support services.

“A person with HIV on effective treatment can live a long, healthy and productive life, and will not pass on the virus to their sexual partners. These are very important reasons to test and know your status.”

Free HIV Testing Sessions

No appointment is required to attend the following free and confidential testing sessions:

• Friday 7 February, 10 am – 12 noon – The Huddersfield Mission, 3-13 Lord Street, Huddersfield, HD1 1QA
• Thursday 13 February, 4.30 pm – 6.30 pm – Brian Jackson House, 2 New North Parade, Huddersfield, HD1 5JP

For those unable to attend these sessions, The Brunswick Centre can arrange an appointment by calling 01484 469691.

Further information can be found on The Brunswick Centre website.