Warrington Town Hall will be lit up red on Sundy, December 1 for World AIDS Day.

This global initiative unites people in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

Medical advances mean people with HIV in the UK can expect a long and healthy life.

However, the disease remains highly stigmatised and misunderstood, causing many individuals to delay getting a diagnosis and treatment.

This World AIDS Day, people are encouraged to 'smash the stigma' by getting tested for HIV.

Testing is quick, free, and easy.

It is the only way to determine if one has HIV.

For those living with the virus, early treatment can ensure a full and healthy life.

Axess sexual health service in Warrington is committed to making testing as easy as possible in a supportive environment.

Based at Bath Street Health and Wellbeing Centre, it offers a range of services, including STI testing, HIV treatments, and emergency contraception.

The drugs and alcohol recovery service CGL, based on Bold Street, also offers HIV testing.

It is recommended that individuals who have been sexually active and have changed partners in the last year, not used a condom, or shared needles should get tested.

Self-sampling HIV test kits are available for Warrington residents via the SH:24 online sexual health screening service.

Councillor Maureen McLaughlin, cabinet member for health, wellbeing and social care, said: "It’s important that we use World AIDS Day to remind ourselves that HIV has not gone away – we still need to raise awareness, fight prejudice and support those living with and affected by HIV and AIDS.

"Getting tested is free and easy to do.

"You will usually get your results the same day or within a few days of testing from an experienced member of staff who will be able to offer guidance and support.

"Knowing your status is a really important step in fighting HIV and AIDS and reaching the national goal of ending new HIV transmissions by 2030."

Dr Martyn Wood, consultant in HIV medicine at Axess sexual health, said: "World AIDS Day gives us a moment to reflect on those that we have lost to HIV and AIDS, but it is also a time to celebrate how far we have come in the treatment and prevention of HIV infection.

"Those living with HIV can now lead full, healthy lives with minimal monitoring.

"Being on effective treatment means HIV cannot be passed on.

"If you are not living with HIV, preventative medication can keep you HIV negative.

"It’s important we all reflect this World AIDS Day, but also take the opportunity to test for HIV and know our own HIV status."

In September 2024, Warrington Health and Wellbeing Board endorsed the intention for Warrington to join the Cheshire and Merseyside Region's Fast Track Cities initiative, aimed at ending HIV transmission by 2030.

People can participate in World AIDS Day by wearing a red ribbon, the symbol of support for everyone affected by HIV and AIDS.