Kirklees Council’s health chief encourages people to get tested for HIV

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Director of Public Health Rachel Spencer Henshall having a finger prick HIV test by Anne Glew from the Brunswick Centre.

HIV Testing Week takes place from the 5 February and we are working in partnership with The Brunswick Centre and health partners to highlight the importance of regular testing in order to protect yourself and others.

Early diagnosis of HIV means that those living with it can access treatment which allows them to live as long as anyone else. Effective treatment can stop transmission as the amount of virus in the blood is reduced to undetectable levels.

Free HIV tests are available at the locations below. The HIV test is a straightforward finger-prick test and results will be available within 5 minutes. 

Kirklees Council’s Director of Public Health, Rachel Spencer-Henshall said:

“I am pleased that we are able to offer residents 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 said:

“HIV testing week is a crucial part of promoting the importance of us knowing our HIV status.

“With rapid community-based testing, results can be ready within 5 minutes. Anyone with a reactive result will get rapid access to HIV treatment and support services.

“The great news is that a person with HIV on effective treatment can live a long, healthy and productive life and will not pass the virus to their sexual partners. This is a great reason to test and to know your status.”

HIV testing drop-in sessions:

  • Monday 5 February, 10am – 12pm Whitehouse Centre, Princess Royal Health Centre, Greenhead Rd, Huddersfield, HD1 4EW
  • Monday 5 February, 4pm – 6pm Brian Jackson House, room B10, 2 New North Parade, Huddersfield, HD1 5JP
  • Thursday 8 February, 10am – 12pm CGL Hub, Union Bank, 3 Union Bank Yard, New Street Huddersfield, HD1 2BP
  • Thursday 8 February, 3.30pm – 6pm Community Hub, John Smith’s Stadium, Stadium Way, Huddersfield, HD1 6PG.

If you are unable to attend any of the above sessions, you can contact Anne at the Brunswick Centre on 07703 187976 to book an appointment.

For more information about HIV Testing contact https://www.thebrunswickcentre.org.uk/

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