By Tegan Griffiths, Senior Health Care Assistant, Wirral Ways
Hi my name’s Tegan and I’m a Senior Healthcare Assistant working across the Wirral. I spend a lot of my time talking to people about HIV, running rapid tests, and helping people understand their health. I see how much confidence a simple test can give someone and how much fear disappears once people hear the facts instead of the myths.
At Wirral Ways we run our HIV testing service in partnership with Sahir House and together we want to make sure everyone on the Wirral feels able to get tested, ask questions, and look after themselves. Testing should feel normal, routine, and completely judgement-free, because it is.
HIV Today: What You Need to Know
A lot has changed when it comes to HIV. With the right treatment people can live long and healthy lives. When someone is on treatment and reaches an undetectable viral load, they cannot pass the virus on. This is one of the biggest steps forward we have ever had.
You cannot catch HIV from hugging, kissing, sharing food, or touching. It is passed on through unprotected sex or sharing injecting equipment. There is still a lot of stigma out there and much of it is based on old information. Part of my job is helping people feel confident and informed, so they can make the choices that are right for them.
Our Partnership with Sahir House
We work closely with Sahir House, who are brilliant. They have been supporting people affected by HIV for years and their knowledge and compassion make a huge difference.
Together we offer:
- Free, rapid HIV testing
- Friendly advice and a safe space to ask anything
- Links to specialist support if needed
- Follow up care for anyone who tests positive
The aim is simple, to make testing easy and to make sure people feel supported.
Why Getting Tested Matters
You cannot always tell if you have HIV. Many people have no symptoms at all, sometimes for years. That is why testing is so important.
At Wirral Ways you can get a free rapid test if you are eighteen or over. It is quick, private, and you get your result in minutes. Lots of people tell me afterwards that it was far less scary than they expected.
You might want to get tested if:
- You have had unprotected sex
- A condom has broken
- You share injecting equipment
- You are starting a new relationship
- You just want peace of mind
Whatever the reason, you will always be treated with respect.
What Happens During a Test
People imagine testing is awkward or complicated. It really is not. Here is what happens:
- We have a chat and I explain the test
- You have a quick finger prick
- The test takes a few minutes to develop
- We look at the result together and talk through anything you need
If someone does test positive, they are not left to deal with it alone. We link people straight into NHS care and Sahir House for extra support. Early treatment helps people stay well and live full, healthy lives.
Ways to Stay Safe
There are lots of options to protect yourself and reduce risk.
- Condoms
Still one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce risk.
- PrEP
PrEP is a daily pill for people who might be at higher risk. It is incredibly effective when taken properly, and it is free on the NHS.
- PEP
If something has happened in the last 72 hours, PEP can stop HIV before it takes hold. It is emergency medication so you need to act quickly.
- Needle Safety
If you inject drugs, using clean equipment every time is vital. Wirral Ways runs Needle and Syringe Programmes across the Wirral so you can get equipment, advice, and support without judgement.
World AIDS Day: A Chance to Talk, Learn and Take Action
World AIDS Day is a reminder to look after ourselves and each other. Testing does not need to be scary. Asking questions does not make you a burden. And nobody should ever feel judged for wanting to take control of their health.
If you would like a rapid HIV test, or if you just want to talk things through first, come and speak to us at Wirral Ways. I am always happy to help, and so is the rest of the team.
Even one test can make a difference. And you deserve to know your status.