Health and wellbeing
Get tested and know your status this HIV Testing Week
Published on
Walsall residents are invited to know their status by ordering a free HIV test kit as National HIV Testing Week takes place from 9 to 15 February 2026.
Knowing your HIV status is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and others, and early testing plays a vital role in reducing new infections.
Walsall has a lower HIV testing rate and a higher proportion of late diagnoses than the national average, meaning some residents may miss out on early access to treatment when it is most effective. Early testing ensures timely support and helps reduce transmission within the community.
HIV Testing Week takes place every February to promote regular testing in England. The campaign also helps to drive progress toward ending new cases of HIV in England by 2030 through early testing, treatment, condoms and PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).
Testing is free, confidential, quick and easier than ever, and it can be done from the comfort of your home. All it takes is a fingerpick and results are usually back within a week.
Regular testing offers benefits for everyone. Most people will get a negative result, meaning they can continue to take steps to protect themselves such as using a condom (which helps protect against unplanned pregnancies and other sexually transmitted infections) and using PrEP, if at higher risk, to reduce the risk of getting HIV.
Walsall residents can order a free kit by going to https://freetesting.hiv.
“ National HIV Testing Week is a reminder that everyone has the opportunity to live healthily, with confidence and without stigma. Regular testing for HIV is important. It is free, confidential and simple, and it gives you the information you need to make the best choices for yourself and your loved ones.
If you get a positive result, treatment is highly effective and allows you to live a long, healthy and fulfilling life. When you’re on the right treatment and your viral levels becomes undetectable, you cannot pass HIV on. We’re committed to supporting every resident to feel safe, informed and empowered, and encourage you to order a free test kit and take that important step in knowing your status. “
To find out more about HIV testing, protection, treatment and other sexual health advice visit the Starts With Me website.
For free and confidential advice on looking after your sexual health, testing or to book an appointment, contact Walsall Integrated Sexual Health. Visit the Walsall Sexual Health website or call 01922 270400.
- HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is an infection caused by a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. In the UK, it is most commonly transmitted by having anal or vaginal sex without a condom. Information about HIV is available on the NHS website.
- HIV testing is offered to everybody as part of a sexual health screen. Staff will be able to talk through any concerns that you may have.
- Further advice and guidance, including ordering a free home test kit, is available at startswithme.org.uk
