Posted on: 13 January 2026
STI Awareness Day highlights the importance of sexual health, early testing and open conversations - free from stigma or judgement.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common and many people who have one don’t experience symptoms. Regular testing helps people stay well, access treatment early and protect their partners.
Why awareness matters
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STIs don’t always cause symptoms
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Early testing leads to effective treatment
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Stigma can prevent people from seeking help
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Sexual health is part of overall health and wellbeing
Looking after your sexual health is a normal and responsible form of self-care.
Support from CNWL
Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust provides free, confidential sexual health services across our communities. Our teams offer testing, treatment, contraception and advice in safe, supportive environments.
We are committed to providing inclusive services that respect people’s identities, experiences and choices.
If you live in Surrey
The Surrey Sexual Health Team have a dedicated page to order home testing kits There are two types of kits available for use at home. One for over 18s (this includes a test for Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, HIV and Syphilis) and a chlamydia and Gonorrhoea test for under 25s.
If you live in London
You can order a home testing kit online from Sexual Health London – visit the Sexual health London website to order a kit.
If you need to see a clinician because you have symptoms or are a contact of a sexually transmitted infection, please visit www.sexualhealth.cnwl.nhs.uk for more information on booking an appointment in one of our sexual health clinics in London and Surrey.
When to get tested
You may want to consider testing if:
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You’ve had unprotected sex
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You’ve changed sexual partners
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You’ve been notified by a partner
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Something doesn’t feel right - even without symptoms
Find out more
If you need advice or would like to get tested, our sexual health teams are here to help.
👉 Find your local CNWL sexual health service