26 November 2021

1 December is World AIDS Day. CNWL’s LGBT+ Staff Network PRIDE@CNWL wishes to extend love, solidarity and compassion for all those whose lives have been impacted by HIV/AIDS.

“Let's remember and celebrate the lives of those we have lost, and send love to those they have left behind. 

“The tragedy of people dying without the loving contact of their nearest and dearest at times due to Covid-19 is a stark reminder of how many people with AIDS have suffered and died alone due to the blight of homophobia and stigma. This should never have happened. Let's end HIV/AIDS stigma now. We also need to ensure we remember women and gender non-conforming people who are often neglected from the HIV/AIDS story.

“Each year, organisations and individuals across the world bring attention to the HIV epidemic, endeavor to increase awareness and knowledge, speak out against HIV stigma, and call for an increased response to move toward ending the epidemic.

“The world has made significant progress since the late 1990s, but HIV remains a major global public health issue.”

There are many websites, resources and events available for more information, and a good starting point may be the WHO website.

Our CNWL Sexual Health Services  offer support, treatment and care for people living with HIV.

CNWL staff can reach out to our Network if they feel the need by searching 'LGBT network' on Trustnet.

From the PRIDE@CNWL Co-Chairs, Chris Wilson and Sofia Venuti