Kirklees Council’s health chief encourages people to get tested for HIV
This year HIV Testing Week takes place from the 10 to 16 February 2025 and once again we are working in partnership with The Brunswick Centre and health partners to highlight the importance of regular testing to help 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 when the amount of virus in the blood is reduced to undetectable levels.
Free HIV tests are available at the locations below. A simple finger-prick test is carried out and your results are available within 5 minutes of the test being carried out.
Kirklees Council’s Director of Public Health, Rachel Spencer-Henshall said:
“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.”
Chief Officer of the Brunswick Centre, John McKernaghan said:
“It’s never been easier to test for HIV and HIV testing week is a crucial part of promoting the importance of us knowing our HIV status.
“Testing is free and confidential and 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.
“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. Very important reasons to test and know your status.”
HIV testing sessions
Call in to one of the free and confidential HIV testing sessions listed below. No appointment required.
- Friday 7 February, 10am-12 noon – The Huddersfield Mission, 3-13 Lord Street, Huddersfield HD1 1QA
- Thursday 13 February, 4.30pm-6.30pm – Brian Jackson House, 2 New North Parade, Huddersfield, HD1 5JP
If you are unable to attend one of the above sessions and would like to have a HIV test, you can contact The Brunswick Centre on 01484 469691 to make an appointment.
For more information visit The Brunswick Centre website.