🛡️ The Situation

Wales has its own NHS — NHS Wales (GIG Cymru) — controlled by the Welsh Government. The sexual health firewall, the principle of free care at the point of use, and the non-judgmental GUM clinic model all apply equally here.

What differs is the service infrastructure: the home testing system is different (shwales.online), PrEP access routes differ, and LGBTQ+ sexual health navigation runs through Welsh-specific networks. A Welsh resident who follows England's guidance will frequently be directed to the wrong service. Under the Welsh Language (Wales) Measure 2011, you also have the legal right to request your care in Welsh.

⚖️ The Golden Rules

1. Fast Track Cymru and THT Cymru Are Your Navigators Fast Track Cymru (fasttrack.wales) is Wales's premier HIV prevention and care network, operating across multiple regions to connect gay and bi men with testing, PrEP access, and LGBTQ+-affirming care. Terrence Higgins Trust Cymru (tht.cymru) provides dedicated testing, HIV support, and peer networks tailored to the Welsh system.

2. SHW (Sexual Health Wales) Handles Postal Testing The national postal testing service is shwales.online. Complete the online assessment to receive a free home testing kit for STIs and HIV. It is designed to be highly accessible and ensures you receive the three-site swabs (throat, rectal, genital) necessary for gay and bisexual men.

3. For PEP: A&E or Your Local Health Board (LHB) Clinic, Within 72 Hours If you need PEP, go to your nearest A&E or contact your LHB's sexual health clinic immediately. Say: "I need PEPSE following a high-risk exposure." The medication is free. Do this within 72 hours (ideally within 24).

⚖️ The Reality of the System

  • Free sexual healthcare at the point of use, including PEP and PrEP.
  • Accessible and free national postal testing via shwales.online.
  • Dedicated Welsh LGBTQ+ navigators like Fast Track Cymru.
  • Navigating between English and Welsh systems can cause confusion, as routes for access differ from NHS England.
  • Clinical access and specialised services can be more concentrated around major urban centers like Cardiff.

💬 Anonymous Partner Notification

If you test positive for an STI, you can notify your partners completely anonymously. You do not need to face a difficult conversation if you feel unsafe or anxious.

  • Clinic Health Advisers: Your LHB clinic can manage contact tracing for you. You can give them your partners' phone numbers, and they will text them anonymously to say they have been exposed to an STI and should get tested. They will never reveal your identity.
  • shwales.online: The postal testing portal has built-in anonymous notification tools.
  • SXT: A UK-based digital service (sxt.health) that allows you to send anonymous partner notifications via text or email.

🗺️ Guide Map

Testing & Clinics

Prevention

Emergencies & Support

Result Management

Other