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Terrence Higgins Trust: Thousands of free at-home HIV kits available, as National HIV Testing Week starts in England

Words by sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust

National HIV Testing Week starts today (February 5) in England, at a time when testing levels are at a record high among gay and bisexual men.

There was a 7% increase in HIV testing among gay and bisexual men in 2022, with rates almost a quarter (23%) higher than before the Covid-19 pandemic in 2019 thanks to a jump in test kits ordered online.

This includes an increase in testing across all ethnicities when compared to 2019. For gay and bisexual men of black African ethnicity testing has increased by 48% since 2019, while there was a 38% increase among those of Indian, Pakistani or Bangladeshi ethnicity, according to UK Health Security Agency data.

But it’s important to avoid complacency and ensure testing levels are even higher in order to achieve the goal of ending new HIV cases by 2030, as well as increasing HIV testing across the wider population. In contrast, HIV testing in heterosexuals in England is down by a quarter since 2019.

Anyone can order a free HIV test kit to do at home via freetesting.hiv. While testing events and drop-ins are also happening across the country to mark National HIV Testing Week.

Gay and bisexual men are one of the groups most impacted by HIV in the UK since the very start of the epidemic, which is why getting tested is so important. There’s no way to know you’re living with HIV without testing and doing so is quick, easy and free.

Richard Angell

Richard Angell, Chief Executive of sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “It’s brilliant news that HIV testing among gay and bisexual men is at a its highest ever level with an increase in testing across all ethnicities within that group. But we absolutely can’t afford to be complacent as we aim for ending new HIV cases by 2030. This number has been achieved in part because many of us are ordering tests online to do at home, which is quick, convenient and free. While testing in sexual health services is crucial for those who prefer to test in that way and for who at-home testing isn’t the best option.

“It’s so important that gay and bisexual men are engaged in HIV testing, with a negative result providing the opportunity to ensure you stay HIV negative by utilising options including PrEP. While, for those who do receive a positive diagnosis, you can then access the amazing treatment and support necessary to live well with HIV. There’s no better time to test for HIV that during National HIV Testing Week and we want to see gay and bisexual men testing at higher levels than ever before whatever your age, ethnicity or where you are in the country.”

Anyone can order a free HIV test kit to do at home via freetesting.hiv. While testing events and drop-ins are also happening across the country to mark National HIV Testing Week.

DJ Tony de Vit: A Life, A Legacy

Words by Joanne Tuite

Tony de Vit almost single-handedly laid the foundations of a whole new sound and era in the world of dance music. In the space of just a few years, following many years of being a DJ, he produced some of the world’s best known and loved dance music, performing to masses of fans all across the globe. His flawless mixing and musical creativity soon became known as the ‘Tony de Vit sound’ which has inspired countless numbers of DJs worldwide and a generation of followers.

Naturally progressive and revolutionary, he played a major role in creating a whole new sound within the world of dance music – the sound of hard dance. Becoming known as the ‘father of hard dance’, his innovative sound remains to the forefront of dance music, serving as a guiding light for so many.

Known by all for his immense goodness, vitality and humility he soon became DJ of the people, having time for everyone and making it a priority to support and develop the world of dance by encouraging aspiring DJs. Tony’s talent, passion and dedication ensured that all aspects of his life in music was a true success – from DJing, to forming record labels to producing music.

His legacy has played a vital role in the contemporary world of dance music and the global music community which has been continually inspired by the unique sound of DJ Tony de Vit.

DJ Tony de Vit possessed one of the most remarkable careers in the dance music industry with the rise to international stardom and amount of music which he produced in the space of just a few years. Displaying unrivalled skill and creativity from the earliest days of his interest in music he journeyed on to create his own distinct sound and style, making the genre of dance his own. From the beginning of the success which the genre of house music experienced from the early 1990s Tony de Vit was already one of

Britain’s leading professional DJs which would only naturally include the international circuit soon after. Always optimistic, energetic and progressive, he was one of the most prolific and leading figures in the dance music industry.

 

To this day, every aspect of his creativity and work strikes a chord with fans, artists and other DJs alike, all captivated by his sound and music. His timeless collection of music means as much to them now as it did over a generation ago revealing its unique status and quality of sound. His life journey has resulted in one of the most revered collections of work in the world of music – a legacy of the highest level to be treasured.

From local legend to one of the world’s leading celebrity DJs his life and work has been one of the greatest examples of sheer excellence in determination, creativity and success. His work in music has created a sound which has inspired and continues to inspire a whole new generation, remembrance and significance for all who experience a taste of the timeless collection, life and legacy of DJ Tony de Vit.

UK’s largest survey of people living with HIV reveals high satisfaction with treatment and care, but stigma and mental health conditions remain prevalent

People living with HIV continue to report a high level of satisfaction with their HIV care service and treatment, a new survey by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) into those living with the virus has found.

Despite this, the survey also shows that levels of stigma remain high with one in 25 (4.3%) people reporting having been verbally harassed because of their HIV status in the last year and a similar proportion (4.3%) feeling that family members had made discriminatory remarks.

The Positive Voices survey 2022 was completed by 4,618 people living with diagnosed HIV who were invited to take part through their local HIV clinic between April 2022 and March 2023, making it the largest UK survey of people living with HIV.

The survey finds that people continue to have a positive view of their HIV care service, with an average satisfaction rating of 9.4 out of 10 in 2022 compared to 9.3 out of 10 in 2017. Most people (91.7%) were satisfied with their current treatment plan, with many people (54.0%) now receiving a single tablet regimen compared to 35.7% in 2017.

“The findings are an urgent reminder of just how much work and funding is needed to address systemic challenges and barriers so that everyone living HIV can thrive.”

However, while there was a slight improvement in measures of stigma since the first survey in 2017, it still remains concerning to survey respondents. In 2022, one in three people (32.1%) reported low self-esteem due to their HIV status; one in seven (13.7%) worried about being treated differently to other patients by healthcare staff, one in 10 (10.4%) have not shared their HIV status with anyone aside from healthcare staff and almost half (45.1%) reported feeling ashamed about their diagnosis.

Regardless of stigma type, higher levels were reported among younger people, women and people who identified as trans, non-binary or in another way.

Mental health conditions also remain high, with one in five (22%) reporting current symptoms of either anxiety or depression. Of those reporting symptoms, half (49%) had been diagnosed with a mental health condition.

Very high levels of a history of experiencing physical and sexual violence were also reported, with over one in four (25.9%) having experienced physical violence. Of those experiencing physical violence, 9.4% thought that the physical violence was because of their HIV status.

Clare Humphreys, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, said:

 “I am pleased to see this report highlights high satisfaction with HIV treatment and care. Treatment is so effective that HIV can be reduced to undetectable levels, meaning you can live a long healthy life and you won’t pass HIV on to partners.

“It is very concerning however, to see stigma experienced so prominently in the lives of people living with HIV with reports of people being verbally harassed, physically attacked, excluded from family activities and left isolated and lonely. Stigma, anxiety and depression not only affects the welfare of people with HIV, but also stops people from accessing HIV care and treatment as well as accessing healthcare more broadly.

“It is important that we continue to address the issues raised in this report in order to support the needs of people with living HIV and also help achieve the Government’s ambition to eliminate HIV transmission by 2030.”

Alex Sparrowhawk, HIV and Ageing Manager at Terrence Higgins Trust, said:

“The Positive Voices survey shows some progress in improving the lives of people living with HIV – but it’s clear that more work and investment is needed. It’s great that people reported a high level of satisfaction with their HIV care service. This is a testament to a highly committed workforce within HIV provision. But living with HIV is about more than treatment and today’s report shows that we’re simply not having our needs met with many struggling to access psychological services as well as social and welfare support.

“People living with HIV are living longer thanks to incredible progress around treatment. Government and providers must be aware of this and respond to the needs of people ageing with HIV in the years ahead.

“People on effective HIV treatment can’t pass it on – this is a life-changing message. It is very concerning that this report shows only three in five people living with HIV strongly believe this, because over half of respondents who did said it made them feel much better about their HIV status. National HIV Testing Week is next month and it’s important everyone knows the facts about HIV, including that people on effective HIV treatment can’t pass it on to tackle stigma and barriers to testing.”

Deborah Gold

Deborah Gold, Chief Executive of National AIDS Trust, said:

“These survey findings are an important window into the way HIV impacts on the lives of people living with HIV and the wide-ranging inequalities that prevail. It is a vital resource that makes for stark reading. We must act on the insights to ensure people living with HIV can live their best lives.

“It is simply not good enough that people living with HIV are experiencing poorer levels of wellbeing, care and happiness compared to others. It’s hugely concerning that there has been little improvement when it comes to health related quality of life, with worryingly high levels of anxiety and depression reported among people living with HIV. People living with HIV must be engaged meaningfully to address these inequalities and the deep-rooted stigma that the report reveals is alarmingly prevalent.

“We welcome the evidence in the report that people continue to experience a high level of satisfaction with their HIV care. However, further support must be accelerated as a matter of priority, in particular for communities who are experiencing worse outcomes. The findings are an urgent reminder of just how much work and funding is needed to address systemic challenges and barriers so that everyone living HIV can thrive.”

Findings on HIV care service also included: 97.0% said their HIV clinic provided enough information about HIV and that staff listened carefully to what they had to say; 96.4% said they felt supported to self-manage their HIV and had enough time to discuss queries at appointments; 94.8% felt involved in decisions about their HIV treatment and care.

There is also significant understanding of the concept of U=U, meaning a person on HIV treatment with undetectable viral load cannot pass on HIV through sex, with nine in 10 (92.3%) people aware. Three in five people (58.1%) reported that the U=U statement made them feel much better about their HIV status; this was similar across age and ethnicity.

An HIV test is free and can be beneficial whatever the result. If you test negative it can provide access to PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) if needed, which is a drug taken by HIV negative people before and after sex to reduce risk of HIV. If you test positive there is very effective treatment which reduces HIV to undetectable levels so you cannot pass it on and also enable you to live a normal healthy life.

Queer music artist Andrew Flynn releases emotionally charged new single, ‘Narcissist’

Rising queer music sensation, Andrew Flynn, has unveiled a powerful and deeply resonant track titled Narcissist. Known for infusing ’80s/’90s nostalgia with a contemporary edge, Andrew draws from personal experiences to craft a melodic journey through love, loss, and self-discovery.

Hailing from the small town of Billingham and now making waves in Seaton Carew, Andrew wears multiple hats with finesse. By day, he delves into the intricacies of the human mind as a dedicated psychotherapist, while by night he transforms into a captivating storyteller, weaving raw emotions into evocative lyrics.

Andrew’s music encapsulates the drama and flair. Narcissist is a soul-baring journey through the dark side of love,” remarked Michael Jamo of Songweb.net.


With Narcissist, Andrew invites listeners on an emotional rollercoaster, tapping into influences from iconic artists like Erasure and George Michael, delivering a sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

Andrew states: “I am very excited to be releasing Narcissist as the song’s creation lies in my own personal journey—a testament to my resilience forged through the challenges of growing up gay in the 1980s. Turning my past struggles into a creative goldmine, the aim is converting shame and trauma into strength through every lyric I write.”

Narcissist invites audiences to embark on a cathartic voyage, exploring the complexities of relationships and the battle for self-worth. Dark, deep, and unapologetically authentic, this single promises to resonate with listeners, offering a glimpse into the artist’s soul and leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.

Narcissist is now available on all major streaming platforms.

Violence against women and gender minorities: THE SORORITY launches first secure community to keep everybody safe everywhere in the world

THE SORORITY, an app and online community has launched worldwide, gathering over 80,000 members to help women and individuals from gender minorities protect each other and act against any form of violence, including physical assault, harassment, isolation, discrimination, and domestic. Born in France in 2019, THE SORORITY app is free of charge and available for download worldwide in French, English, and Spanish.

THE SORORITY was created by The Sorotity Foundation, a nonprofit organisation based in France, as a collective and grassroots solution to the systemic problem of violence against women and gender minorities. In a world where one out of three women is or will be a survivor of physical or sexual violence, THE SORORITY wishes to unite women and people from gender minorities and help them fight against violence.


The app allows anyone who feels an immediate danger at home, in the streets or in public transportation (as a witness or a victim), to rapidly send a discreet alert to the community. Any member of the community receiving the alert is able to help, either by getting in contact with the caller and offering assistance if they are close-by, geolocate them to keep them company or call the authorities if needed. The app provides other useful features such as a very loud and alarming ringtone to surprise the attacker, a list of the necessary emergency numbers and a distress message to display on the screen to discreetly ask someone for help.

The Sorotity Foundation said: “These tools were created with the objective to reduce the gravity of the potential assaults by destabilising and distracting the attacker, shifting the “freeze” response that often hinders victims’ reaction onto the assailant, diminishing the bystander effect by involving a community of witnesses, or alerting the authorities more quickly.

“To prevent the risk of fake profiles, each member’s registration is manually verified and approved with a real-time selfie and picture of their ID. In compliance with EU’s data protection regulations (GDPR), the data is deleted from the platform following the profile’s approval or refusal.


“If a profile is identified as a potential threat by the community, the individual is immediately banned, and an internal investigation evaluates the risk before the profile is permanently deleted. To this day, no case has been reported. This thorough double-checking method allows the app to be a safe place for everyone, where members have the well-being of all at heart.

“THE SORORITY’s features are proven to be highly effective. One minute after giving the alert, 10 contacts on average are mobilised, and reach out through phone calls and chat interactions. The solution is also in very high demand with over 80,000 verified profiles, and close to 6,500 individuals offering a shelter to those in need of a safe place to escape to.

“The app has received 100% positive feedback from users, with 93.9% of them saying the app makes them feel safer when they are in the streets or in public transportation by themselves.”

ALL THAT JAZZ by Simons Adams

Hope everybody had a joyous Christmas, and is looking forward to a jazzier new year! Here are six stunners to keep you entertained.

IDRIS ACKAMOOR & THE PYRAMIDS: Afro Futuristic Dreams (Strut). The long-running Pyramids, regularly formed and reformed since their birth in the early 1970s, return with another speculative, sprawling, expansive epic, this one exploring past, present and future with more than a few nods to science fiction. It is described as a “new journey in African-American consciousness,” engaging as it does in “commentary pertaining to celebrating the life and death of ancestors, institutional racism, police brutality and the traversing of hazy psychedelia.” So, not much going on here, then. But, of course, there is. With some of the tracks featuring up to 12 musicians, this is an album from a great big band in action, dominated by the slow rasp of Idris Ackamoor’s saxophones, the evocative flute of Margaux Simmons, and the massed ranks of strings, percussion and drums.

Bobby Cox’s electric guitar adds some necessary raunch, offset by the vocal chants that inevitably bring Sun Ra’s Arkestra to mind, but to my mind, the main comparison is with George Clinton’s Parliament or Funkadelic, their exuberant mayhem of rhythm and controlled chaos sweeping everything along in its path. It’s impossible not to smile when listening to this set, for it brings the fun back into jazz.

ETHIC HERITAGE ENSEMBLE: Impressions (Red Records). Percussionist Kahil El’Zabar from Chicago founded the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble initially as a trio in 1973, the group recording Impressions, their second album, in 1981. As with all their albums, the music they create here defies simple characterisation, the opening first part of Impressions, for example, a descending woodwind theme that echoes Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring, contrasts strongly with the sonorous harp of the second part.

In the kaleidoscope of sounds that follow, percussion is a constant element, as are space and silence, the three musicians negotiating around each other with care and respect, erupting violently in places before restoring a calm order. A welcome reissue of a much-loved album.

NOAH STONEMAN: Anyone’s Quiet: Let It Rain To You (Fresh Sound New Talent). Noah Stoneman – a young pianist from North London – certainly moves in high circles, with renowned pianist Kit Downes acting as mentor and producer of this debut album, and the fine saxophonist Alex Hitchcock a regular performance partner. For Stoneman, this record is about discovering moments of solace and quiet amongst the noise, hoping that “people can embrace the ebbs and flows of everyday life that the music speaks to.”

That might be his wish, but from the very off, it is apparent that his music is far too interesting to provide mere solace. Each piece – all composed by Stoneman – requires detailed attention, and for all its surface beauty, this is actually quite complex music, and all the better for it. Stoneman might only be 22, but he plays like a mature musician with a lifetime’s experience behind him. What a phenomenal debut.

HEIKKI RUOKANGAS: Karu (577 Records). Young Finnish musician Heikki Ruokangas is an avant-garde guitarist and composer who weaves traditional Finnish melodies into his experimental jazz compositions. On this, his debut solo album, he creates an astute dialogue between melody and noise, shifting from soothing, sensitive passages to heavier, abrasive attacks on the strings. His fingerpicking is extraordinarily precise and complex, with every note always fully considered, yet he always sounds unhurried and spontaneous. Not understanding any of the Finnish titles, I have no idea what each track is about, but their atmosphere is wonderful. A strong new voice to look out for.

WOLFGANG MUTHSPIEL: Dance of the Elders (ECM). Another guitarist now, but this one from Austria with a very different style. The jazz of Wolfgang Muthspiel is heavily folk-influenced, but also inspired by classical music, his playing understated but all the more impressive for it, as the opening 10-minute Invocation displays in a suitably evocative way. But this is a trio set, and with Scott Colley on bass and the wondrous Brian Blade on drums, the interplay between the three is always perfectly nuanced. Five of the seven pieces are by Muthspiel, with a Brecht–Weil number and, delightfully, Joni Mitchell’s fragile Amelia, from Hejira, completing a fine album. Enjoy at your relaxed leisure.

NILS PETTER MOLVAER: Certainty Of Tides (Modern Recordings). Renowned for his love of experimentation, of merging his Nordic jazz sensibilities with everything from South Asian intonations to techno and reggae, Norwegian trumpeter Nils Petter Molvær now delivers the seemingly inevitable album of symphonic jazz. He chose six of his best-known pieces to be given a new life by a group of arrangers, composers, and electronic music producers and then performed by the Norwegian Radio Orchestra. The result is not simply jazz with strings, more the use of a symphony orchestra as a unified, multi-voiced instrument to subtly cushion the intimate trumpet, all beautifully recorded by maestro producer Jan Bang. This is a rich and sumptuous album, and surprisingly listenable, too.

Reviews by Simon Adams

Funeral of Luke ‘Lola’ Holloran to be held at Woodvale Crematorium (South Chapel) on Wednesday, January 17

The funeral of Luke ‘Lola’ Holloran, who sadly passed away last month, will be held at Woodvale Crematorium (South Chapel) on Wednesday, January 17 at 2.30pm. The cortege is expected to leave from outside Legends Hotel at 2pm and after the funeral the wake will be held at Charles Street Tap from 3.30pm.

A celebration of Lola’s life will be held at Charles Street Tap on Sunday, January 21 at 7pm – details to follow shortly.

The family has asked for no flowers, but donations to local HIV charity Lunch Positive, where Lola used to be a volunteer, would be most welcome. To donate, CLICK HERE

Breaking Barriers: Fostering Inclusivity for LGBTQ+ Individuals in Care Homes

Words by Radar Healthcare

As society progresses toward greater inclusivity and acceptance, it is crucial to ensure that every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, receives compassionate and respectful healthcare. 

A 2017 NHS survey, revealed that at least 16% of participants had a negative experience because of their sexual orientation, and at least 38% had a negative experience because of their gender identity, when simply trying to access public health.

Care homes play a pivotal role in providing support and assistance to elderly individuals, including those from the LGBTQ+ community.

As part of the UK Quality of Care Report, Justine Abson, Head of Marketing at Radar Healthcare, has explored the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ seniors in care homes and discuss how healthcare workers can approach this issue and how technology can help foster inclusivity and improve experiences:

“Inclusive care homes that prioritise the needs and experiences of LGBTQ+ seniors are a testament to the progress we have made in embracing diversity and equality. By fostering a compassionate and supportive environment, healthcare workers have the power to transform lives, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels respected, heard, and valued.

“By having a robust system in place, care homes can demonstrate their commitment to creating safe and inclusive environments for all residents, including those who identify as LGBTQ+.”

“Through education, open communication, and harnessing the potential of technology, we can bridge the gaps in healthcare disparities and create a future where LGBTQ+ seniors receive the dignified care they deserve.

“Creating inclusive care homes for LGBTQ+ seniors is a fundamental aspect of compassionate healthcare. By addressing the challenges faced by this community and adopting strategies such as education, open communication, and support networks, healthcare workers can create an environment that respects and affirms dignity.”

What are the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ seniors in care homes?

LGBTQ+ seniors often encounter unique challenges in care homes due to a variety of factors, including historical discrimination, social isolation, and a lack of understanding and sensitivity from healthcare providers. Some common challenges faced by this community include:

Stigma and discrimination: 

Many LGBTQ+ seniors have experienced a lifetime of discrimination and prejudice, which can lead to apprehension and fear when seeking healthcare. Discriminatory attitudes from healthcare staff can further exacerbate these feelings, resulting in a reluctance to access necessary care.

Lack of understanding:

Healthcare workers may not possess adequate knowledge or understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, including specific health concerns, mental health challenges, and the importance of affirming language. This knowledge gap can hinder effective communication and quality care provision.

“Healthcare workers should adopt inclusive language, ask about preferred pronouns, and create a safe space for open conversations about sexual orientation and gender identity.”

Social isolation:

LGBTQ+ seniors may have limited social networks, as they are more likely to be estranged from biological families or face rejection due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. This isolation can negatively impact mental health and overall well-being.

How can we approach LGBTQ+ care in a sensitive and inclusive manner?

To create a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ seniors in care homes, healthcare workers can take several important steps:

Education and training: 

Healthcare providers should receive comprehensive training on LGBTQ+ health issues, cultural competence, and sensitivity training. This education can foster a better understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ seniors, ensuring they receive respectful and inclusive care.

Open and affirming communication:

Healthcare workers should adopt inclusive language, ask about preferred pronouns, and create a safe space for open conversations about sexual orientation and gender identity. Open communication builds trust, allowing seniors to express their concerns and healthcare needs freely.

Cultivating a supportive environment:

Care homes can create support groups, community events, or engage with LGBTQ+ organisations to foster a sense of belonging and social connection. This inclusive environment helps combat social isolation and promotes overall well-being.

“One of the fundamental aspects of supporting the LGBTQ+ community in care homes is fostering a culture of inclusion and respect.”

What role can technology have in supporting LGBTQ+ seniors?

Technology can play a vital role in enhancing the care and experiences of LGBTQ+ seniors in care homes. Here are a few ways technology can help:

Telehealth services: 

Telehealth platforms enable LGBTQ+ seniors to access healthcare remotely, reducing potential discomfort or anxiety related to in-person visits. This technology offers a convenient and confidential way to connect with healthcare providers, ensuring continuity of care.

Online communities and resources:

Virtual platforms provide access to online support groups, forums, and educational resources specifically tailored for LGBTQ+ seniors. These digital spaces facilitate connection, reduce isolation, and offer a wealth of information and advice.

Electronic health records (EHRs): 

Implementing EHRs with inclusive features allows healthcare providers to document and store patient information, including sexual orientation and gender identity, in a sensitive and confidential manner. This ensures that LGBTQ+ seniors receive appropriate care and treatment while maintaining their privacy.

Risk, quality, and compliance software:

Justine concludes: “An all-in-one risk, quality, and compliance system such as Radar Healthcare provides a comprehensive solution for centralising, reporting, and addressing complaints, concerns, and incidents across all health and social care organisations. These systems play a crucial role in minimising and resolving issues, but their benefits extend beyond incident management.

“By ensuring that all employees comply with workforce training, these systems contribute to creating a supportive environment for diverse communities, such as the LGBTQ+ community in care homes.

“One of the fundamental aspects of supporting the LGBTQ+ community in care homes is fostering a culture of inclusion and respect. By implementing an all-in-one risk, quality, and compliance system, organisations can establish standardised procedures and training modules that promote understanding and sensitivity towards LGBTQ+ individuals. This includes educating employees about the unique challenges faced by this community and equipping them with the necessary knowledge to address and accommodate their specific needs.

“All employees can contribute to fostering an environment of respect, acceptance, and understanding.”

“By tracking and monitoring compliance with workforce training through the system, organisations can ensure that all employees receive the essential education on LGBTQ+ issues. This can include sensitivity training, understanding diverse gender identities, creating inclusive policies, and addressing potential biases or discrimination. A centralised system provides a streamlined approach to delivering and tracking these training programs, ensuring that every staff member receives the necessary information and is held accountable for their compliance.

“Moreover, a comprehensive risk, quality, and compliance system helps care homes proactively identify and address any gaps or issues related to the care and support provided to the LGBTQ+ community. It enables the reporting and management of incidents or concerns promptly, ensuring that appropriate actions are taken to resolve them and prevent future occurrences. By having a robust system in place, care homes can demonstrate their commitment to creating safe and inclusive environments for all residents, including those who identify as LGBTQ+.

“It is crucial to recognise the significance of implementing systems like Radar Healthcare to support the LGBTQ+ community in care homes. These systems empower organisations to actively promote equality and diversity while minimising the risk of discrimination or neglect. By centralising incident reporting, monitoring compliance, and providing comprehensive training, all employees can contribute to fostering an environment of respect, acceptance, and understanding.

“Ultimately, the integration of an all-in-one risk, quality, and compliance system not only benefits organisations by minimising and resolving issues but also helps create care homes where individuals from the LGBTQ+ community feel safe, respected, and supported. Ongoing work is needed to promote inclusivity, and these systems play a vital role in driving positive change within care facilities and society as a whole.”

Ugandan LGBTQ+ activist in critical condition after stabbing

Steven Kabuye, a prominent LGBTQ+ rights activist in Uganda, where sexual minorities have faced a wave of abuse since an anti-gay law was enacted last year, was stabbed on Wednesday, January 3, and is in critical condition, his organisation, Coloured Voices Media Foundation-Truth to LGBTQ+ Uganda, said.

Kabuye was “stabbed to near death by unknown assailants a few metres from our home as he was heading for work this morning”, Coloured Voices said on X.

Coloured Voices shared a video that showed Kabuye writhing in pain with an apparent gushing wound on his wrist and a knife protruding from his stomach.

Frank Mugisha, one of Uganda’s most prominent LGBTQ+ activists, said he believed it was a homophobic hate crime, fuelled by the law, which is one of the strictest in the world.

“The deep hate for sexual minorities that the law unleashed created an atmosphere in which such attacks are happening,” Mugisha said.

The law prescribes the death penalty for certain same-sex acts. At least seven people have been arrested under it, and rights activists say it has also led to a surge of abuse by private individuals against LGBTQ+ people, including rapes, torture and beatings.

Uganda’s government has denied this is happening and said the law is meant to criminalise same-sex activity and its promotion, not penalise LGBTQ+ Ugandans.

A police spokesman said he was unaware of the attack on Kabuye and would look into it.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU: Exercise for the body and the mind

Words by Kemptown-based health and fitness personal trainer PatDPersonalTrainer.

I became a health and fitness personal trainer because of how good exercising made me feel. For as long as I can remember fitness and good mental health has always been and still is a very challenging and essential part of my life.

My physical training and self belief started to develop when I was a full time student studying dance and positively continued into my professional dance career.

I then became a creative choreographer and realised how important it was to stay fit in order to accurately demonstrate new movement ideas to fresh and eager professional dancers.

“Just remember… you are one workout away from a good mood.”

I deeply appreciated the dancers emotional connection to my work and I loved their desire and commitment to never give up.
During this time I had the pleasure of teaching dance and drama students who where in full time theatrical training at the highly renowned colleges such as Laine Theatre Arts, Epsom and Italia Conti Academy, London.

Working with all physical abilities made me realise how rewarding it was to see the development and growth of my students and most importantly observe them evolve as performers and build their confidence and self belief.

Moving forward to the present time and my one to one personal training sessions still allow me to continue to encourage and motivate individuals of all ages and abilities.

I remain grateful each time I witness a clients strong sense of accomplishment and the connection between exercise, good mental health and personal well-being.

Around this time of year lots of people have good intentions to get fit, improve their health and eat better, maybe thinking of the summer ahead and how they want to look.

It could now have become a necessity for some people but not everyone can engage well when exercising. My advice when starting is to focus on the positives of what you can personally achieve and get an understanding of your realistic goal.

Perseverance and commitment is a progressive development and having the trust and support from a personal trainer is the key to your success in reaching your initial goal.

It takes time to adapt to a method and a solid technique is the fundamental basics to achieving secure and effective results. When you take part in a session and start to benefit from the effort you are putting in the brain produces endorphins which are boosted when exercising and help relieve pain, reduce stress and improve you mood.

They are feel good chemicals that the brain produces and they can make you feel better and keep you in a positive state of mind. All of this is a team effort, the client and I are the team.

The team is enhanced because of the energy, commitment and trust between each other which opens up many possibilities that take the client beyond their own expectations.

I believe life is a team effort. Just remember… you are one workout away from a good mood.

CONNECT: PatDPersonalTrainer can be found on Instagram @PatDPersonalTrainer; alternatively call 07905516533 or email patricia_a_dennison@outlook.com

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