Early testing and diagnosis are key in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
That was the message on World AIDS Day 2025 as public health experts called for an end to the stigma surrounding the conditions.
Public Health South Tees is working in Middlesbrough and Redcar & Cleveland support people living with HIV, remember those who have been lost and renew efforts to prevent new infections.
Across the area, 85 people were newly diagnosed with HIV last year, and while the overall number remained steady, there was a 45% increase in diagnoses among women, while those among men fell.
Almost half of people were diagnosed late, meaning they may have been living with HIV for some time without realising.
However considerable progress has been made – HIV is preventable and treatment is now extremely effective, and those with the condition can live long, healthy lives.
Testing is free, quick and confidential, through clinics and community events, online and even via home testing kits.
Across South Tees, local organisations, sexual health services, charities and community groups have been marking World AIDS Day with free testing and awareness events, community conversations and Council staff training.
On World Aids Day the Government released the new HIV Action Plan for England 2025-30, setting out the national direction for ending new HIV transmission by 2030.
This strategy strengthens commitments on prevention, testing, PrEP and tackling inequalities.
The North East and North Cumbria will use this national plan to help guide and strengthen local work in the coming years.
Rebecca Scott, Public Health Principal with Public Health South Tees, said:
“Our message this World AIDS Day is simple: HIV has changed, but it hasn’t gone away.
“Treatment is incredibly effective, but we’re still seeing too many late diagnoses and a real rise in women affected.
“World AIDS Day reminds us to pause and reflect - but the real work happens every day of the year.”
Lorraine Hughes, Director of Public Health with Darlington Borough Council, added:
“Across the North East, so many organisations and communities are doing great work.
“Our role is to bring amplify what’s happening and keep pushing for raised awareness, better access to HIV testing, PrEP and stigma-free services.”
The Terrence Higgins Trust offers free, confidential rapid testing, sexual health referrals and advice and support: Teesside | Terrence Higgins Trust
Contact the Teesside team at info.teesside@tht.org.uk or call the national helpline THT Direct on 0808 802 1221.
Advice and information is also available on the Eyes Open website: Signposting – Eyes Open HIV