Sexual health and HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is opening a new HIV ‘Fastest’ service in Wolverhampton. The clinic, which will be open every Wednesday evening from 6-8pm from 8th October,  will offer rapid HIV testing with results available  within an hour, whereas results from sexual health clinics can take several days. 

The ‘Fastest’ service aims is to provide an alternative testing environment for people in the region who are not able to access traditional GUM services during the normal working day, or who may be put off by hospitals and traditional sexual health clinics. 

Jane Morel, Regional Manager of Terrence Higgins Trust in Wolverhampton said: “It’s really important to have a service in Wolverhampton that is able to give HIV test results within an hour. There is strong evidence that some people 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.”

Tests are free and confidential for everyone. Pre and post test counselling and support will be offered to those attending and anyone who tests positive will be given full support in choosing a treatment centre. They will also be given information on the range of support services provided by THT and other local services including counselling, information, advice and peer support.

The clinic will be run by staff who are trained in sexual health. People can ring up for an appointment or drop-in every Wednesday from 6–8pm.  For further information on the clinic please contact Terrence Higgins Trust on 01902 711 818 or THT Direct on 0845 12 21 200.
Ends

Notes to editors

• The clinic will be based at: Terrence Higgins Trust, 242-244 Bond House, Bond Street, Wolverhampton, WV2 4AS.
  
• Terrence Higgins Trust is the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity with centres across England, Scotland and Wales. We're here to provide information and advice about HIV and sexual health and offer a range of services including sexual health checks, counselling and support groups.  We campaign for a world where people with HIV live healthy lives, free from prejudice and discrimination and we promote good sexual health as a right and reality for all.