Wiltshire expands free home STI testing to include HIV and syphilis

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 7 Nov, 06:08 · Archive

Wiltshire residents can now order free home testing kits for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea as part of a trial.

Wiltshire residents can now access an expanded range of free home STI testing kits as part of a trial run by the council's public health team. The service includes routine testing for HIV and syphilis alongside chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Users order kits online, complete the tests at home and return them by post, with all results kept confidential.

Previously, HIV and syphilis tests were only included based on responses to screening questions. Under the new trial, all users will be routinely offered tests for all four sexually transmitted infections at least once a year, with more frequent testing available if needed.

Cllr Clare Cape, cabinet member for public health, said that 'making testing easier and more convenient is an important part of our work to improve sexual health in Wiltshire'. She added that 'people can take the tests discreetly in their own home, helping more people to get tested and, where necessary, receive an earlier diagnosis and treatment'.

Although STI rates in Wiltshire remain relatively low, syphilis cases have been rising nationally. The trial aims to reduce stigma around testing, raise awareness and improve understanding of local testing needs. Increasing HIV testing is a priority in the HIV Action Plan for England 2025–2030, particularly among heterosexual people who have historically been less likely to be reached by testing campaigns.

Wiltshire's sexual health service, WiSe, has backed the expanded offer, which brings online testing options in line with those available in clinics. Residents can order a free test from SH.UK.

Wiltshire expands free home STI testing to include HIV and syphilis — Image: Gazette & Herald

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How it is being reported

Wiltshire expands free home STI testing to include routine HIV and syphilis checksMore STI home testing kits are now available to order as part of a trialGazette & Herald · 7 Nov, 05:00
Wiltshire expands free home STI testing to include routine HIV and syphilis checksMore STI home testing kits are now available to order as part of a trialWiltshire Times · 7 Nov, 05:00
Wiltshire expands free home STI testing to include routine HIV and syphilis checksMore STI home testing kits are now available to order as part of a trialSwindon Advertiser · 7 Nov, 05:00
Wiltshire expands free home STI testing to include routine HIV and syphilis checksMore STI home testing kits are now available to order as part of a trialThis Is Wiltshire · 7 Nov, 05:00

In this story: Wiltshire Council · WiSe · Wiltshire · Clare Cape

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