The Sussex Beacon, an HIV charity in Brighton, talks to myGwork about their work in supporting individuals living with HIV and how allies can get involved.

Image credit: The Sussex Beacon

Could you tell us a little bit about your charity and the work that you do?

The Sussex Beacon is a third-sector organisation in Brighton that provides support to people facing the challenges of living with HIV. We have a 10-bed inpatient unit, which is the only one of its kind in England and a range of community services. While most people living with HIV in this country are well most of the time, there is a sizeable minority who have long-term physical and mental ill health. We provide clinical services and practical and emotional support. We also have a programme of activities targeted at preventing frailty for those ageing with HIV.

Image credit: The Sussex Beacon

What advice do you have for those who want to support people with HIV?

 There are so many ways to get involved. For professionals, there are campaign roles, front-line and managerial roles in support services and many other administrative, finance and HR roles. The sector is welcoming, inclusive and inspiring to be part of.

How can we help battle the stigma still attached to HIV in society?

We need a wider debate about HIV. For instance, the message that someone living with HIV, who is taking effective medication regularly, cannot pass the virus on, has not permeated wider society. More public information, more open discussion and less ignorance are the current requirements.

What can workplaces do to provide support for employees living with HIV?

The majority of employees living with HIV would not need extra support and may or may not choose to share their status. When someone does need extra support, the most important factor is the workplace that is accepting, inclusive and able to respond with compassion and practical support.

What do you think is the next course of action to improve conditions for people living with HIV in wider society?

While people in the UK are relatively well cared for, HIV is still a fatal virus for many people across the World. A wide understanding of where we are in HIV treatment and what is still needed would be the key requirement. We have also seen services across the UK being defunded in recent years. They are still needed, as our service users tell us all the time, and this trend needs to be reversed.