Acceptability of HIV self-sampling kits (TINY vial) among people of black African ethnicity in the UK: a qualitative study

Background: Increasing routine HIV testing among key populations is a public health imperative, so improving access to acceptable testing options for those in need is a priority. Despite increasing targeted distribution and uptake of HIV self-sampling kits (SSKs) among men who have sex with men in the UK, little is known about why targeted SSK interventions for black African users are not as wide-spread or well-used. This paper addresses this key gap, offering insight into why some groups may be less likely than others to adopt certain types of SSK interventions in particular contexts. These data were collected during the development phase of a larger study to explore the feasibility and acceptability of targeted distribution of SSKs to black African people. Methods: We undertook 6 focus groups with members of the public who self-identified as black African (n = 48), 6 groups with specialists providing HIV and social services to black African people (n = 53), and interviews with HIV specialist consultants and policy-makers (n = 9). Framework analysis was undertaken, using inductive and deductive analysis to develop and check themes. Results: We found three valuable components of targeted SSK interventions for this population: the use of settings and technologies that increase choice and autonomy; targeted offers of HIV testing that preserve privacy and do not exacerbate HIV stigma; and ensuring that the specific kit being used (in this case, the TINY vial) is perceived as simple and reliable. Conclusions: This unique and rigorous research offers insights into participants’ views on SSK interventions, offering key considerations when targeting this population.. Given the plethora of HIV testing options, our work demonstrates that those commissioning and delivering SSK interventions will need to clarify (for users and providers) how each kit type and intervention design adds value. Most significantly, these findings demonstrate that without a strong locus of control over their own circumstances and personal information, black African people are less likely to feel that they can pursue an HIV test that is safe and secure. Thus, where profound social inequalities persist, so will inequalities in HIV testing uptake – by any means

The knowledge, the will and the power: a plan of action to meet the HIV prevention needs of Africans in England

Funded by the Department of Health and managed by the African HIV Policy Network, the National African HIV Prevention Programme (NAHIP) works mainly with African-led organisations to deliver HIV prevention interventions across England. NAHIP aims to enable Africans to access appropriate information and services to equip them to make informed sexual health decisions and to fight discrimination and stigma. The NAHIP partner organisations have worked closely with Sigma Research to devise this consensus document. It articulates the central issues for planning sexual HIV prevention interventions targeting Africans living in England. This document describes some of the obstacles to meeting HIV prevention need and focuses on overcoming these barriers in order to achieve change. This document is a plan for action. Many different people influence sexual HIV transmission to and from African people living in England. They include Africans (with HIV and without HIV), people planning and delivering HIV prevention interventions, community leaders, health care providers, faith leaders, educators, police, commissioners of services, charitable funders, legislators and researchers – the actions of each can make significant contributions to meeting HIV prevention needs and thereby decreasing the likelihood of HIV transmission. One of the aims of this document has been to foster a sense of common purpose among a very diverse group of organisations undertaking HIV prevention, treatment and care interventions with African people living in England. The result of this collaborative process is a plan of action that offers a clear and purposeful vision. We are proud of the commitment to partnership that this plan embodies and are hopeful that it will support all those who are concerned with HIV infection and who have the capacity to influence it

Additional file 1: of Acceptability of HIV self-sampling kits (TINY vial) among people of black African ethnicity in the UK: a qualitative study

Thematic coding hierarchy. (PDF 426 kb