Liverpool partners will once again stand together on 1 December to mark World AIDS Day, honouring those loved and lost to HIV, while reaffirming the city’s unwavering commitment to ending new transmissions by 2030.
Across the city, partners, communities and health organisations are uniting under a shared message of remembrance, solidarity and progress. Liverpool has made significant strides in recent years, including major expansions in HIV testing, improved access to prevention such as PrEP, and strengthened support for people living with HIV.
Local data shows decreasing late diagnoses and continued falls in prevalence, reflecting persistent, collaborative efforts to tackle stigma and improve uptake of testing and treatment.
HIV Testing Week – 24 to 30 November
In the lead-up to World AIDS Day, Liverpool is holding its own “HIV Testing Week” (24–30 November), offering a range of opportunities across the city to get tested, access expert advice, and speak to local services. Community venues, clinics, outreach events and partner organisations will be providing free, confidential HIV tests, with options available for walk-ins, booked slots and home testing.
Regular testing remains one of the most important tools in reaching the city’s ambition of zero new HIV transmissions by 2030.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Culture and Wellbeing, said: “World AIDS Day is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, community and public health.
“Liverpool City Council always stands shoulder to shoulder with those affected by HIV, and our commitment is as strong today as ever.
“We pause to remember those we have lost, to celebrate the progress we’ve made, and to push forward to ensure we achieve zero new HIV transmissions by 2030.
“I encourage everyone who can to take part in our testing week to do so, as knowing your status saves lives and empowers others.”
Professor Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool, said: “We are making real, measurable progress in our mission to end all new HIV transmissions by 2030.
“We are expanding testing, prevention and treatment options, and we’re seeing the benefits in reduced late diagnoses and better outcomes for residents.
“We have also recently launched our exciting PrEP Direct digital programme, to improve access to the game-changing HIV prevention drug PrEP.
“However, there is more to do, and our additional testing week is a vital chance for people to access quick, easy and confidential tests. Ending new transmissions by 2030 is achievable, but only if we continue working together, challenging stigma, and supporting one another.”
Ant Hopkinson, Chief Executive of Sahir House, added: “For more than three decades, Sahir House has stood with people living with HIV, fighting stigma and advocating for equality.
“The vigil on World AIDS Day is a moment of reflection and togetherness, honouring those we have lost and recognising the resilience of those living with HIV today. We welcome everyone to join us.
“By increasing testing, sharing knowledge and showing compassion, Liverpool can and will reach its goal of zero new transmissions.”
How to get tested and access services
Residents can order testing online or book an appointment at:
Axess Sexual Health – https://www.axess.clinic
Young Persons’ dedicated clinic – ‘Axess 4 U’ – https://www.axess.clinic/services/axess-4-u
Liverpool PaSH (Passionate about Sexual Health) – https://www.lpash.org.uk/
This service launched in September 2022 and is a charity-led partnership between BHA, George House Trust and LGBT Foundation, which exists to challenge and address health inequalities and support people to improve their sexual health and wellbeing.
Sahir House – https://sahir.org.uk/
A service with a passion to deliver provision that will guarantee better sexual health and wellness for all and serve the needs of LGBTQ+ people across Merseyside.
World AIDS Day Vigil – All Welcome
The commemorations will culminate in a moving World AIDS Day Vigil on the evening of 1 December from 6 – 7.30pm at Liverpool Parish Church, hosted by Sahir House. The vigil offers space for reflection, remembrance and community connection—and all are warmly invited to attend.
