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To mark the start of National HIV Testing Week, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has become the first serving G7 leader to take a public HIV test.
Robbie Currie, Chief Executive of National AIDS Trust, said:
“Testing for HIV is quick, simple and possible to do in the comfort of your own home, as the Prime Minister has shown by taking a test at 10 Downing Street. This is an important step toward removing barriers and misconceptions about testing, to show that knowing your HIV status should be as routine as any other health check.
“During National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a free HIV test, which they can take in their own home. It is estimated that there are around 5,200 people in England living with undiagnosed HIV, meaning they are not taking medication which will keep them healthy and prevent them from passing it on.
“We can be the first country to end new HIV transmissions by 2030 – but that will only happen if more people test and know their HIV status. Following the Prime Minister’s example by ordering a free HIV test this week is a simple but powerful step towards achieving that goal.”
National HIV Testing Week runs from 10 – 16 February 2025.
During National HIV Testing Week, you can order a free HIV test by visiting startswithme.org.uk.
You can also get a test from your local sexual health clinic or from your GP.