Sexual health charity Herts Aid is offering free testing during National HIV Testing Week from November 21.

The charity will be offering free ‘finger prick’ HIV testing in GP surgeries, pharmacies and community venues over the course of the week to raise awareness of HIV and increase local testing.

Suzanne Bannister, director of Herts Aid, said: "Many people have HIV but don’t know it. Perhaps they don’t think they could have HIV, assume they are HIV negative or have never got round to testing.

"We’re urging people to consider taking a test this HIV Testing Week so they know their status for sure. HIV screening takes 10 minutes out of your busy schedules, but the positive effects of early diagnosis can last a lifetime."

The finger prick test can give an initial result immediately. If HIV antibodies are detected, Herts Aid will arrange a follow up test with a local sexual health clinic to confirm the result.

The individual will also be given information on HIV and support to adjust to their diagnosis. The tests will take place in a private room at all the venues.

They will take place in Watford:

  • Monday, November 23, between 10am and 4pm at Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road
  • Tuesday, November 24, between 9am and 1pm at New Hope Homeless Service, 4 Whippendell Road
  • Tuesday, November 24, between 10am and 4pm at the YMCA, Charter House, Charter Place
  • Wednesday, November 25, between 10am and 4pm at Watford Community Housing Trust, 59 Clarendon Road
  • Wednesday, November 25, between 1pm to 5pm at New Hope Homeless Service, 124 Exchange Road
  • Thursday, November 26, between 10am and 4pm at the YMCA, Charter House, Charter Place
  • Friday, November 27, between 9am and 12pm at New Hope Homeless Service, 4 Whippendell Road
  • Friday, November 27, between 1pm and 5pm at New Hope Homeless Service, 4 Whippendell Road
  • Saturday, November 28, between 11am and 5pm at Phoenix Medical Centre, 798a St Albans Road
  • Monday, November 30, between 2pm and 5pm at Health Inclusions, 87 Casio Road

To speak to Herts Aid about HIV or sexual health, or to take a HIV test call 01920 484784 or email admin@hertsaid.co.uk to arrange an appointment.