Working together on HIV prevention and care this World AIDS Day

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This World AIDS Day, Monday 1 December, boroughs across south east London are working together to strengthen the HIV response and help end new HIV cases by 2030.

By pooling resources and expertise, Lambeth, Southwark, Lewisham, Bexley and Bromley are taking practical steps to make prevention and care more accessible. These initiatives reflect a shared commitment to break down barriers such as stigma and clinic access, so residents can get the care they need without judgment.

A public health awareness graphic with a red banner at the top displaying bold white text: “Lambeth can end new cases of HIV by 2030.” Below, a rectangular red box contains the message: “Know your status. Free HIV testing is available across Lambeth – online, at your GP and in clinics. Search ‘Find Sexual Health’.” At the bottom, there are two logos: one for “Lambeth Together” featuring a colorful cross-like design, and one for “Lambeth” with a purple swoosh symbol.

Here are a few ways Lambeth is supporting residents:

  • Opt-out HIV testing in hospitals and GP surgeries, so everyone having a routine blood test is offered an HIV screen.
  • Community clinics and pop-up events, making it simple to know your status without fear or stigma.
  • Digital PrEP service, allowing eligible residents to access HIV prevention online—complete consultations, receive home testing kits, and get medication delivered or collected locally.

Ruth Hutt, Director for Public Health, Lambeth, said: “With some of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the country, Lambeth recognises how vital it is to work with partners across south east London. Community outreach and the new Digital PrEP service are part of our efforts to break down barriers such as stigma, scheduling conflicts, and people’s ability to get to a clinic—making HIV prevention more flexible and inclusive. By sharing resources and expertise with neighbouring boroughs facing similar challenges, we can give residents the best possible prevention and care.”

Working Together for a Healthier Future

These efforts are part of a wider collaboration between local authorities, the NHS, voluntary sector, and national bodies. By investing in digital innovation and community-led solutions, Lambeth is helping to ensure that everyone can access the tools and support they need to protect their health and live well with HIV.

Importantly, this work aligns with the Sexual Health Strategy and action plan that Lambeth is developing with other south east London boroughs. The strategy sets out a shared vision for improving sexual health outcomes, tackling inequalities, and ensuring services are inclusive, accessible, and stigma-free. HIV prevention and care are central to this plan, alongside broader priorities such as contraception access, STI testing, and community engagement.

If you’re living with HIV or want to get tested, your local council and partners are here to help—confidentially, compassionately, and without judgment.

Visit FindSexualHealth.org.uk

Access the Digital PrEP Service in Lambeth

Find out more or start your journey at www.sh.uk/getpreponline.

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