Young Londoners
You deserve to feel confident, informed and in control of your health. Whether you’re learning about HIV for the first time or looking for support, there are services and people ready to help—without judgement.
Take charge of your health
Young people are one of the groups most likely to be unaware of their HIV status. But knowledge is power. Testing is quick, free and confidential—and there are more ways than ever to protect yourself, including PrEP and PEP. Whether you’re exploring your identity, starting new relationships, or just want to stay safe, you have options.
How often should I test?
If you’re under 25 and sexually active, you should test for HIV and other STIs at least once a year—or every time you have unprotected sex with a new partner. Testing is quick, free, and confidential, and there are youth-friendly services like Brook and the C-card scheme to help you stay safe and informed. Regular testing is a key part of staying healthy and preventing transmissions, so consider testing today.
Safe sex and healthy relationships
All sex should feel good, safe, and respectful. That means understanding your body, your boundaries, and your options.
STIs and HIV
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, are more common than you might think—and many don’t show symptoms. That’s why regular testing is key. It’s quick, free, and confidential. You can get tested at a clinic, through the C-card scheme, or even order a test kit to be delivered to somewhere that suits you.
Condoms and lube
Condoms are still one of the best ways to protect yourself from STIs and HIV. And using lube makes sex safer and more comfortable and helps prevent condom from breaking. If you’re aged 13–24 and live in London, you can get free condoms and lube through the Come Correct scheme.
Consent is everything
Consent means everyone involved agrees to what’s happening—freely, clearly, and enthusiastically. You can change your mind at any time. If something doesn’t feel right, you have the right to stop.
Healthy relationships
A healthy relationship is built on trust, respect, and communication. You should feel safe, heard, and supported—whether it’s your first relationship or your fiftieth. If you’re ever unsure, The Mix has great advice and support for under-25s navigating relationships, breakups, and everything in between.
Support for Young Londoners
- Come Correct (C-card) A free condom scheme for young people aged 13–24 in London. Sign up online or at a local clinic to get free condoms, lube, and sexual health advice. Many C-card locations also offer HIV testing and support. https://comecorrect.org.uk
- Brook Brook offers sexual health services, education, and advice for under-25s. Many Brook clinics provide HIV testing, PrEP access, and support for young people living with HIV. https://www.brook.org.uk
- Spectra Youth Spectra offer a peer-led support for LGBTQ+ young people, including HIV testing, PrEP navigation, and wellbeing workshops. https://spectra-london.org.uk
- CHIVA (Children’s HIV Association) Chiva supports children and young people living with HIV, including through youth retreats, peer mentoring, and advocacy. https://www.chiva.org.uk
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Living well with HIV
Learn about accessing free treatment, and the support groups and information for people living with HIV.