HIV and sexual health charities Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) and Widows and Orphans International (WOI) are calling for people in Barking & Dagenham to get involved in World AIDS Day (December 1) this year, either by attending an all-day HIV testing service, making a donation to support local HIV services, or wearing a red ribbon to raise awareness.

World AIDS Day, which has been running every December since 1988, is dedicated to raising awareness of HIV and AIDS. In the UK alone, over 80,000 people are living with HIV and over 7,000 are diagnosed every year.

On Tuesday 1 December, THT and WOI will be running a special extended session of THT’s ‘Fastest’ one-hour HIV testing service. The session will take place at Barking Learning Centre from 10.00am - 1.00pm and 2.00pm - 4.30pm, offering free, confidential HIV testing to local people.

The test involves a simple finger-prick blood test, with results available within one hour. Those who attend the clinic will be given information and advice before and after the test, and anyone who tests HIV positive will be fast tracked into a treatment centre. They will also be given information on the range of services available for people living with HIV, including counselling and peer support.

Adam Wilkinson, London Operations Manager for THT, said: “World AIDS Day is one of the most important events in THT’s calendar. Currently in the UK one in four people with HIV don't know they have it, so we would encourage people to come forward for testing if they think they’ve been at risk. There are plenty of other ways for local people to get involved, either by attending an event, making a donation, or just wearing a red ribbon."

Joshua Odongo, Director of WOI, said: “The commemoration of World AIDS Day annually offers all of us the opportunity to reflect on the huge price HIV/AIDS has taken, and is still taking, from humanity. Individually, we need to take the lead in stopping AIDS by going for a test and reducing the risks to ourselves and those we love. What you decide to do will go a long way in contributing to the success of all of humanity.”

THT and WOI run ‘Fastest’ clinics in Barking & Dagenham twice every week at Barking Learning Centre, on Saturdays (12.30pm - 4.30pm) and Thursdays (6.00pm - 9.00pm). For further information on the clinics please contact Charlotte Harrison on (020) 7812 1726, or email charlotte.harrison@tht.org.uk.

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Notes to Editor

1. 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. Terrence Higgins Trust relies on donations to deliver a wide range of services. To make a donation, visit www.tht.org.uk