From this week Lighthouse West London and Chelsea & Westminster NHS Trust will be offering same day HIV tests from the Lighthouse West London centre in Lancaster Road. The main aim of this innovative new service is to provide an alternative environment for people who may be put off by hospitals and clinics, to take an HIV test.

Adam Wilkinson, Deputy Director of Lighthouse West London says: “This is the first time that a community based HIV testing service will be able to give results within an hour. There is strong evidence that some people, especially those from African communities come forward for testing very late, sometimes when they are already ill. We hope that by making it easier to have an HIV test, more people will come forward.”

The clinic will be run by staff from the St Stephens Centre and HIV test results, using new technology, will be given within an hour. The service will be open access rather than appointment based, and will be open on Monday evenings from 5pm with the last test at 8.15pm.  Pre and post test counselling and support will be offered. Anyone who tests positive will be given full support in choosing a treatment centre and will also be given information on the range of support services provided by Lighthouse West London, including counselling, newly diagnosed courses and peer support.

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