This year's world AIDS day theme is 'Stigma', and we really want to show that there is no place for HIV stigma in Derby and Derbyshire.
What has stigma got to do with HIV and AIDS?
Stigma around accessing sexual health support prevents some people from getting testing for HIV. Individuals who are tested for HIV early are able to receive treatment and support and are often able to lead a healthy life and have a similar life expectancy for those not living with HIV.
In Derby and Derbyshire, a high proportion of those living with HIV were diagnosed late. Late diagnosis can mean the virus has already started to damage the immune system.
Some groups are disproportionally affected by late diagnosis, these include heterosexual women, people of Black African Ethnicity and those over 65.
Individuals living with HIV can experience stigma, often because some people lack information about HIV – for example how it is transmitted – or people make moral judgements about how someone has contracted HIV.
Some people believe that only certain groups of individuals are affected by HIV, but this is not the case and anyone can contract HIV.
How can I show my support?
Red Ribbons
Wear a red ribbon to show your support for anyone who has been affected by HIV and AIDS.
Ribbons will be available from County Hall Reception Week commencing 25 November 2024 for one week. Alternatively, your team can order your own red ribbons from the Terrence Higgins Trust.
HIV Pledge
You can get involved by signing up to the HIV pledge - a tool that has been developed by the sexual health service in Derby and Derbyshire in partnership with stakeholders.
The pledge details what action can be taken by individuals and organisations to help reach the national target of ending all HIV transmissions by 2030 and ending HIV stigma.