For World AIDS Day on 1 December, we’re sharing Max’s story – a Kent-based content creator and sex educator who uses his platform to raise awareness about sexual health, HIV prevention and the importance of compassionate care.

Max, 26, lives in Ashford and regularly attends his local NHS sexual health clinic. He said: “The staff are always happy to see me. It makes a big difference. You feel like you’re being looked after, not judged.”

Tackling stigma and sharing knowledge

Max uses his platform to raise awareness about sexual health and challenge stigma.

“There’s still a lot of confusion about HIV and PrEP,” he said. “Some people don’t realise they’re eligible for PrEP. Other people think it encourages risk-taking behaviour. But it’s about protecting yourself, just like using condoms or getting tested regularly.”

Max also supports the message that U=U (undetectable equals untransmittable) and wants more people to understand how far HIV treatment has come.

“Being diagnosed today isn’t what it used to be. With the right treatment, you can live a long, healthy life and once your viral load is undetectable, you can’t pass the virus on. But myths still stop people getting tested, like the idea that only gay men can get HIV. The truth is, anyone can so everyone who’s sexually active should get tested.”

PrEP and peace of mind

Max has been taking PrEP for more than three years. It’s a medication that helps prevent HIV and is available through NHS sexual health clinics.

“It’s the easiest part of my day,” he says. “I take it with my vitamins in the morning and get on with life.”

Max said: “You need a couple of extra check-ups to start with, but then you get six months of PrEP.  Your PrEP checks can be done as part of your regular sexual health screening. The nurses are great and always happy to answer questions.”

A message for World AIDS Day

Max’s story is a reminder of how important it is to have access to non-judgemental and supportive sexual health services.

“Looking after you includes looking after your sexual health. The clinics are there to help and the nurses are some of the kindest people you’ll meet.”

Our Sexual Health Service (East Kent, East Sussex, Medway) is offering walk-in finger-prick HIV testing:

• The Folkestone Bookshop, Folkestone – 1.30pm to 3.30pm, 28 November
• Clover Street Clinic, Chatham – 1pm to 5pm, 1 December
• Flete Clinic, Margate – 1pm to 5pm, 1 December
• The Gate Clinic, Canterbury – 1pm to 4pm, 1 December
• Avenue House, Eastbourne – 1pm to 4pm, 1 December
• Station Plaza, Hastings – 1pm to 4pm, 1 December

You can also order a free self-sampling test kit from www.sh.uk – delivered in plain packaging.

Alternatively, book an appointment at one of our clinics anytime.