Organisations across Cornwall will mark HIV Testing Week 2026 (February 9 to 15) by encouraging people to test for HIV, access support and learn more about prevention.

HIV Testing Week supports the HIV Action Plan for England, which aims to end new transmissions by 2030 through earlier diagnosis, increased testing, improved awareness and better access to prevention and care.

While progress has been made nationally, late diagnoses remain a concern. These are often linked to stigma, misinformation or the belief that HIV does not affect certain people – leading to missed opportunities to test.

Free HIV testing can be accessed year-round through sexual health clinics and online postal testing, but HIV Testing Week will see a wide range of community testing and outreach events designed to be welcoming, confidential and stigma-free.

Sessions will run at Harbour Housing in St Austell on Tuesday, February 10 from 1pm to 4pm, and at the Intercom Trust in The Leats, Truro on Thursday, February 12 from 4pm to 7pm.

There have been major advances in HIV prevention and treatment, including early diagnosis and a highly effective HIV prevention medication called PrEP, which is freely available through sexual health services. Both contribute to enabling people to live long, healthy lives and preventing onward transmission.

Mags Davies, chief executive officer of Plymouth-based independent sexual health charity The Eddystone Trust, said: “HIV Testing Week is a great opportunity to pause and think about our sexual health, but it’s also important people know that testing is always available.

“Too many people still believe HIV isn’t something they need to think about, but anyone who is sexually active - regardless of gender, sexuality, age or background - can be affected.

“Regular testing is a normal part of looking after your health, and is key to reducing stigma and preventing new diagnoses here in Cornwall.”

Find out more at eddystone.org.uk/testingweek.