National HIV Testing Week 9th to 15 February

National HIV Testing Week is back!

For over a decade, this campaign has empowered thousands to take charge of their health by getting tested for HIV.

From 9th to 15th February, residents across Lambeth, Southwark, Lewisham, Bexley, Bromley, and Greenwich are encouraged to get tested, know your status, and protect your health. HIV Testing Week last year saw impressive results, with a notable rise in tests completed.

During this week, HIV testing will be normalised and considered part of routine care for patients age 16 and over, who are attending GP practices and having blood tests

When we request routine blood tests, we may also include an HIV test if you have not had one in the last year. This is because Lambeth and Southwark have the highest rates of HIV in the United Kingdom. HIV can affect anyone, and some people can have HIV without any symptoms for a long time. 

HIV testing helps with early diagnosis. Without treatment, HIV can be life-threatening, however, with modern medication, people living with HIV can have a normal life expectancy. Effective treatment can also reduce the virus to an undetectable level, meaning it cannot be passed on to sexual partners (“Undetectable = Untransmutable”, or U=U).

If you do not want an HIV test, please let one of our team know before your blood test.'

Published: Jan 22, 2026