Ahead of this year's HIV Testing Week, the Mayor of Wolverhampton has demonstrated how quick and simple it is to use a HIV self-test kit at home.

Mayor Councillor Craig Collingswood (pic) took a HIV test using the free kit available from Embrace, Wolverhampton's sexual health service (watch at https://youtu.be/FL4o944yLR8). He said: "People can live with HIV for a long time without any symptoms, and testing is the only way to know.

“Testing is confidential, and free for everyone in Wolverhampton. I was pleased to be able to take the test myself; it was quick and easy and I would encourage others to order their free self-test kit today."

Organised by HIV Prevention England, HIV Testing Week highlights how regular testing is helping to reduce the number of people living with undiagnosed HIV, or who are diagnosed late. Testing is the only way for people to correctly know their HIV status. Anyone diagnosed with HIV will be able to access free treatment and support.

Testing for HIV is also useful for HIV-negative people who are considering interventions such as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: "Testing rates in Wolverhampton are the highest in the region, and this is playing a key part in our efforts to eliminate HIV transmission by 2030.

“Testing is widely accessible, and it’s a good idea to get checked once a year because, if you have HIV, finding out means you can start treatment, stay healthy and avoid passing the virus onto anyone else. There are many ways to test – at a sexual health clinic, your GP or by ordering a test online – so please take up the offer this national HIV Testing Week."

Dr Prita Banerjee, Consultant and Clinical Director in Sexual Health and HIV for Embrace, added: “Embrace is making every effort to reduce stigma around HIV testing and make it accessible to as many people living in Wolverhampton as possible, through online testing and outreach services.

“Early diagnosis and promptly starting treatment can save lives, so, if you would like to take a HIV test, contact our services and we will support you through the rest.” Wolverhampton residents can find out more and order a free kit by visiting www.embracewolverhampton.nhs.uk.

Alternatively, during HIV Testing week which runs from Monday 9 to Sunday 15 February 2026 on the http://freetesting.hiv website.