a guide to lgbtq+ allyship
To recognise International Day of Friendship, we've put together this resource inform you, or someone you know, about how to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community.
Around 100,000 people in the uk are living with hiv – but an estimated 13% don’t know they have it.
The only way to know your hiv status for sure is to have a test. There are a number of ways you can do this.
In person
Wherever you are in the country, you are entitled to a free HIV test. This could be at a sexual health clinic, at your GP’s office or through a clinic set up by an organisation like THT, 56 Dean Street or George House Trust.
There’s no reason to feel anxious about visiting a clinic for a test. The staff are experienced, professional and will be happy to put you at ease by explaining the process. Plus, by visiting in person you will normally get your results on the same day, which means you’ll find your status as soon as possible.
Find an HIV testing centre near you.
By post
If you can’t make it to a clinic, you can apply for a free test to be sent via the post.
Free tests are normally only offered to people in high risk groups like gay and bisexual men. The results of a home test kit are normally ready within a week.
Find out if you’re eligible for a home test kit.
In an emergency
If you think you might have contracted HIV within the last 72 hours, you might be able to receive emergency treatment which may stop you contracting the virus. This treatment is called PEP and normally involves you taking medication for up to 28 days.
If you are worried you might have contracted HIV within the last 72 hours, contact your local sexual health clinic right away to find out how you can access PEP.
