Side stand switch problem

I have a side stand switch problem but not the usual side stand failed and so bike won't start mines the opposite infact!

My bike doesnt seem to know the side stand is down and so you can put the bike in gear and ride off with the stand now that's not really a problem as such but I am a bit forgetful and I can see it being an accident waiting to happen do you think it's the sensor buggered and I need a new one? (does this mean complete new stand?)
Or is there a way I can test or fix it?

Cheers

Odds are, with its close proximity to the countershaft, chain lube has gummed up the switch. Put the bike on a rear stand with the side stand up & see if you can pull the plunger out of the switch. If it feels like it's gummed up, soak it with WD 40 & give it an hour or 2 to loosen up, then bust out the rags & clean off all the lube & gunk. Should work fine after that!

the FIRST thing I do when I get on my bike is put the stand up! Before I even put the key in the iggy!!