Contributor

Prison officer from HMP Aylesbury encourages others from the LGBTQ+ community to join the prison service ahead of National Inclusion Week

Posted on 20/09/202420/09/2024 by Contributor

A prison officer from HMP Aylesbury is encouraging others from the LGBTQ+ community to join the prison service and help keep the public safe.

Tiffany Dudden, alongside other prison staff, is playing a role in supporting the prison system through challenging times, with prisons until recently close to full. Staff will play a key role in rebuilding the prison system so that it is more effective at cutting reoffending rates among those leaving prison.

Speaking ahead of National Inclusion Week (23 – 29 September), Tiffany, 28, who joined the service as a prison officer in 2018 says: “Diversity is vital because we are all different. It’s always good to learn from other people’s perspectives as it can develop you as a person as well.

“I have found in the prison service that people are very accepting, and it helps that there are a lot of gay people working here, like me. I’d say the prison service is getting very diverse, which is great.”

Recent figures show that the percentage of public sector prison staff self-identifying as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Other (LGBO) has risen over the last four years. As of March 2024, 7.8% of public sector prison staff declared their sexual orientation as LGBO which is an increase of 1.2 percentage points since March 2020.

Tiffany, who has recently moved into a prison offender manager role at HMP Aylesbury, admits the prison service can be a challenging environment to work in, but is also rewarding:

She adds: “Before joining the service, I was studying psychology and criminology and I applied for the officer role quite quickly after leaving university. I didn’t know an awful lot about what goes on inside a prison until I got there. It was daunting at first, but I soon found my feet and started to enjoy it.

“The great thing about working in a prison is that you get to meet people from all walks of life and no two days are the same. But it’s not a job for everyone – you need bags of resilience to do this job and must be great at communicating with people.”

You do not need qualifications to become a prison officer or to join in a support staff role. HMP Aylesbury is looking for caring people with good communication and influencing skills and effective decision-making.

Applications for prison officer roles at HMP Aylesbury are now open. Those who would like to take the first step towards a new career can apply or find out more here.

The History and Usage of Poppers: A Journey Through Time

Posted on 17/09/202418/09/2024 by Contributor

Poppers, a term used for alkyl nitrites have been around for decades and they show no sign of disappearing anytime soon. With an interesting history weaving through medical innovation and underground culture, it is now a mainstream product enjoyed by many, but not all! We have noticed that we have many new buyers in the store and thought a bit of background and helpful information might be useful, so here goes!

From birth to now.

We have to go back to around 1844 and thank a French chemist for the initial creation of the formula. His name was Antoine Jérôme Balard and it is fair to say he made the product with very different intentions than we are using room aromas for these days. It was intended for medical use. What has not changed is the name poppers. In the very beginning, these medical poppers involved breaking a small capsule made of glass which made a popping noise, and so the product name was born.

Fast forward to the 1960s. This is when the product became recreational. Especially in the big cities like London, New York and San Francisco, it grew in popularity. By this time the glass capsules had been replaced by small bottles. The euphoric effect and increased sensory perception made poppers popular, especially in the gay scene. Mainly on the dancefloor but it soon made its way into the bedroom. The combination of the expressive ethos of the LGBTQ+ community during this time and the fact the product can lower inhibitions was a match made in heaven.

Legally the product has also been through the mill but after extensive research, the government decided not to include poppers in the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, ensuring we can keep selling certain formulations.

The battle of the brands

Since the rise in popularity, it was no surprise that companies were going to fight for the nr1 brand. Certainly, in the beginning, it seemed that Liquid Gold, Rush and Jungle Juice were the more popular poppers in the UK. These days they are still up there as big brands but might not be the best sellers anymore. A new wave of hardcore brands has made their way to the forefront.

With Berlin XXX leading the pack closely followed by Power Rush, Pig Red, Fist and English. It is odd how some brands are loved by some and disliked by others. It seems that finding your favourite brand is a bit of a personal journey that will probably have some trial and error. Maybe this is best to illustrate with some customer feedback.

“I’ve been using Power Rush for years, and they never disappoint. To change it up I thought I try Berlin XXX for a change but even though they were strong I did not get the same result. Back to Power Rush, it is!”

“Berlin XXX is no joke, strong and intense. I always make sure I have a bottle at home and will take some with me when I am expecting some action.”

We must admit that not all feedback is positive. Some users have hinted it might have caused a headache and not everybody enjoys the feeling.

Fully Mainstream

In the beginning, the product was referred to as gay poppers but those days are well and truly over. If we look at our customers only, we have many straight men and women in addition to the LGBTQ+ community loving room aromas. This does make sense as the effect of the formula is the same on everybody. What is noticeable is that the manufacturers are maybe a little behind the time as a lot of brands still target the gay male audience with brands like DAD, Bears and others.

Hopefully, the above provided a bit of insight into the journey our favourite little bottle has been on. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. You can email or call us, we have a great team that is more than happy to assist you. Just CLICK HERE for more details. Whilst you are there, make sure to check out our huge selection. With hundreds of products, we are certain you will find a brand that will put a big smile on your face.

Before I sign off a little tip most of you already know. When storing poppers make sure they are in a cold dark place. If safe, a fridge would be ideal. Avoid heat and especially sunlight as those elements will speed up the evaporation of the content.

With love,

The Popper Super Shop Team.

GAY GRAN CANARIA: Dunas Map is the most comprehensive reference for gay tourism and travel in Gran Canaria and Maspalomas

Posted on 17/09/2024 by Contributor

Planning a trip to Gran Canaria and looking for more information about the local gay scene? As the official gay guide of Maspalomas, Dunas Map is the solution and has all the answers for you.

Dunas Map is the most comprehensive reference for gay tourism and travel in Gran Canaria and Maspalomas. The guide shares all you need to know for stress-free holidays on the island. The best businesses and the best addresses are in Dunas Map.

“Dunas Map is the most comprehensive reference for gay tourism and travel in Gran Canaria and Maspalomas.”

Discover the ultimate places to go: restaurants, bars, shops, massages, services… and even more! There are so many things to do and always new openings to try.

Dunas Map is perfect for new visitors as well as for those who visit from time to time; for tourists and residents; for short or long stays. Info is refreshed and the guide is constantly updated; you can trust it and use it with confidence as often as you want, and in addition, it is free! You don’t have to subscribe, and you will never have to pay anything.

In Gran Canaria, one in six tourists is gay, and these numbers are constantly increasing.

Dunas Map offers many tips and recommendations that might just come in handy. Learn more about the gay beach, the dunes of Maspalomas, and the famous Yumbo Shopping Centre.

But also get all the details about the most popular cruising spots, the must-see places, the tourist attractions, and the gay-friendly restaurants. Access the blog to read an impressive amount of exclusive news about fashion, events, brands, culture, gastronomy, and more.

More than just a guide, Dunas Map is a practical tool. Book your excursions online, find your location on the maps, ask for your itinerary, rent a holiday apartment, contact a doctor, or a real estate agent if you want to buy, sell, or rent a property or a business on the island…

“Dunas Map has more than 15 years’ experience and enjoys enormous acceptance in the gay community.”

So many easy-to-use functions are available at your fingertips. You can also check the weekly agenda in the seaside resort, the events list all year round, and take advantage of special offers and discounts.

Maspalomas is the gayest corner of Gran Canaria with much to discover and enjoy.

Dunas Map is available on the web, as an app, and on social media (Facebook, Instagram, X and WhatsApp). It’s perfect when you are far from the island and looking for information, or if you want to just keep in touch with Maspalomas before your next visit.

And of course, when you are on location, you have the opportunity to pick up a physical copy. It’s a glossy foldable leaflet with a convenient city map, easy to use and to slide in a pocket or bag.

Thanks to its compact size, the printed version is very practical, and it can be taken everywhere: to the beach, to the swimming pool, to your apartment, or in clubs.

Ask for it at the reception desk of your hotel or in your favourite gay-friendly bar or store in the Yumbo and all around the area.
Gran Canaria is known over the world as the number one gay destination in Europe.

For almost three years now, Dunas Map also has a magazine. Don’t miss this luxury, big-size, full-colour publication where you can find detailed features on gay life in Maspalomas, interviews with the people who make the news, as well as many suggestions and tips for making the most of your holidays.

Dunas Magazine comes out with a new issue every three months. It is available online for free, but you can also order a print-on-demand copy and receive it directly at home by mail. It’s a must for anyone who doesn’t want to lose touch with Gran Canaria and their favourite gay destination.

“Dunas Map is a must to find out what to do and where to go in the resort.”

Dunas Map was founded in 2008, and over time it has become the favourite gay guide for British men who travel to Gran Canaria. Join Dunas Map, download the app, and subscribe to the newsletter to follow what matters in the number one gay destination in Europe.

More info on Dunas Map HERE

Subscribe to the newsletter HERE

Download the app HERE

More info on the magazine HERE

“PrEP means I can enjoy sex without thinking about HIV”

Posted on 22/08/2024 by Contributor

PrEP is a pill taken by HIV negative people that protects you against HIV. It has been a life-changer for me because it gives me confidence and lets me just enjoy sex.

It’s important that we take our sexual health seriously. Not everyone feels like this though. Especially in the Black queer community, it seems that some are too scared to come into the light and have worries around staying anonymous.

The reasons for this can be complicated, but some men I’ve spoken to on dating apps are not ‘out’ and are nervous that it could somehow come back to their friends or family.

I was recently talking to a guy on an app who was extremely anxious about protecting his identity. As a result, all his body pics have the head cut off and his face pictures are sent as ‘disappearing’ head shots.

“As Black queer men, we need to take control of our sexual health by getting on PrEP and testing regularly.”

This is in case, somehow, someone may find out that he has been using a gay app. He even messaged me on a burner phone.

When I mentioned PrEP, he told me it wasn’t for him. He still lives at home and was worried that the hospital or clinic might send correspondence using his house phone or by letter and that his parents would see it.

I tried to assure him that, in the years I have been taking PrEP, clinicians are always extremely discreet and only contact people via text message – unless directed otherwise. In fact, if you are concerned about being ‘outed’, they can take any steps required to protect your anonymity.

But he was too scared. This is something I battle with on a daily basis when speaking to Black men on dating or hook-up apps.

Unfortunately, Black gay and bisexual men in the UK are disproportionately more likely to be diagnosed with HIV than white men. Something needs to change and I want to do whatever I can to help. That’s why I’m sharing my story.

As Black queer men, we need to take control of our sexual health by getting on PrEP and testing regularly.

It’s so much safer to take care of your sexual health, than completely ignore it.

Re-booting Our Archive: Our Tales of Lesbian Brighton & Hove

Posted on 19/08/2024 by Contributor

Words by Kate Wildblood, Community Champion for Queer Heritage South‘s Live Archive project Re-booting Our Archive: Our Tales of Lesbian Brighton & Hove.

What we did mattered. It always has. Lives lived, changes created, connections made. And if you were like me back in the late ’80s / early ’90s – it mattered that it was all done in a pair of purple Doc Martens. As a non-binary lesbian with a history that needs telling and passion for the photography and the ephemera of that life be they flyers, photos, stickers, badges, merch or tees – I’m thrilled to announce the next accounted-for chapter in my life.

Time to become a Community Champion for Queer Heritage South‘s Live Archive project Re-booting Our Archive: Our Tales of Lesbian Brighton & Hove. Time to help connect lesbians of a certain age (the best age!) and share the means to tell their stories. Enabling, creating, and celebrating. All community-like.

This exciting new project invites us to tell the lesbian tales we’ve lived and loved in Brighton & Hove. Sharing the moments that made us, through the ephemera, objects, photos, stories and soundtracks of our past lives – allowing precious items and past memories to combine as we share our unique histories to create a new chapter of theQueer in Brighton / Queer Heritage South: Live Archive.

On the dancefloor, on the streets, the communities we built, the lovers we found, the families we made, the friendships we treasure. Connecting, flirting, protesting, dancing, working, creating, being us. Ensuring lesbian visibility is never in doubt, Queer Heritage South: Live Archive will create a space for exploration, recognition and celebration. Creating a community proudly connected to our past as we share the tales we always treasured but never found the space to tell. An opportunity to reunite, claim the narrative and direct the story ourselves, deciding how and what we wish to share.

Re-booting Our Archive: Our Tales of Lesbian Brighton & Hove on Wednesday, September 18 from 6 – 8pm at Ironworks Studios, Brighton, BN1 4GD. Book your free tickets HERE

The workshop will include creative activities and conversations. A selection of vegan/vegetarian refreshments will be provided. The event is free but spaces are limited, so booking is mandatory.

Made possible with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Please contact volunteer@queerinbrighton.co.uk for additional information.

Ex-Girlfriend, self-confessed punk rock queen of Brighton’s drag scene, to drop debut single ahead of performance at Revenge Brighton

Posted on 13/08/2024 by Contributor

Stylish. Powerful. Self-loving. Triumphant. Anthemic. These are just some choice words to describe Ex-Girlfriend’s Renegades, the debut single from the self-confessed punk rock queen of Brighton’s drag scene.

Over the years, Ex-Girlfriend has travelled down numerous musical avenues, operating in the outfit They Say Fall from 2010 until 2019 (also known as Bad Machines from 2017 onwards). Wanting to find their feet towards making music and art that expressed their queerness, Ex-Girlfriend departed the band and sought solace in Brighton where they adopted their alias from the titular No Doubt song, as well as a pink hair dye with a similar name from Paramore vocalist Hayley Williams.

As well as drag, Ex-Girlfriend has always had a substantial and dedicated love for emo music, something that they proclaim to have tapped into who they are outside of drag. After five years of musical gestation, the Ex-Girlfriend project seems to have kicked off into high gear after the collaborative meeting of themself and Will Fox, clicking together instantly as they both had similar outlooks on music creation and artistic vision.

All of the music that Ex-Girlfriend wrote with their band seemed to have a more serious viewpoint, leading to them wanting to open up towards their love of pop punk party songs, something that plays out excitingly on Renegades. The song immediately kicks into action like a true pop punk gem from the likes of Paramore or Green Day, with some weighty production in the
instrumental backdrop that reminds one of ‘WORRY.’ / ‘NO DREAM’-era Jeff Rosenstock. Ex-Girlfriend’s passionate lead vocals carry the song and its message of self-love and welcoming arms.

Also on this track, Ex-Girlfriend is joined by fellow Brighton artist Alex Fincher, whose vocals add a balanced gut-punch to the song’s proceedings from the second verse. Let’s also not forget the cool production choices of Will Fox, who creates and releases tension faultlessly in the form of a one-chord bridge, as well as a sound palette that pays homage to the iconic
pop punk styles of the 2000s, as well as adapting around the influences of Ex-Girlfriend such as Cassyette, Deftones, Fightstar and Finch.

The track’s chorus has a stellar pop power to it, with its bookend lyric of “this is our nation and you’re all invited” being at the very core of Ex-Girlfriend’s message: embracing your own unique qualities and manifesting your own destiny as an artist, as a drag queen and as a musician. Even the music video to this track encapsulates the song’s power perfectly, with a detailed story of escaping the trappings of everyday life and seizing the day from whatever perils come your way.

Renegades is available to stream and purchase everywhere on August 30. Ex-Girlfriend is opening for Nova Twins at Revenge on August 30 for the first live performance of Renegades, tickets HERE

“As the glitter settles, the memories of this extraordinary weekend will continue to unite us all.” Brighton & Hove Pride destination sponsor New Orleans shows city’s Pride event a lot of love

Posted on 06/08/202406/08/2024 by Contributor

This past weekend, Brighton & Hove exploded into a rainbow of colour, as the city celebrated its most spectacular Pride festival yet! With this year’s theme of ‘JOY’, hundreds of thousands of fabulous folks lined the streets to show their support, solidarity and allyship and celebrate the glittering parade.

New Orleans & Company were delighted to return to Brighton & Hove for a second year running as the destination sponsor, joining the parade with a float and 85 participants.

“We were beyond thrilled to take part in Brighton & Hove Pride 2024 and to share a slice of New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage and spirit which welcomes all,” commented Kim Priez, Senior Vice President of Tourism at New Orleans & Company.

Kim Priez, Senior Vice President of Tourism at New Orleans & Company (second from left) with members of the UK Office for New Orleans & Company, Travel, Tourism & Marketing Team, (L-R, Billy Greening, Jody Hanson, Neil Tagliavini Jones and Kirsty Dillury) at FABULOSO.

“There are many similarities between Brighton & Hove and New Orleans, from our love of independent chefs and retailers, to a thriving arts community, a 24/7 party scene and spectacular live music. In addition to our own Pride event, we have over 200 festivals a year. In September, we will celebrate Southern Decadence, which is the city’s largest LGBTQ+ event .”

New Orleans has always been a city that champions the arts and celebrates culture, drawing many LGBTQ+ artists and performers to the French Quarter, home to Café Lafitte in Exile, one of America’s oldest gay bars.

With its rich history, vivacious festivals and welcoming spirit, New Orleans is the ultimate destination for travellers seeking an inclusive atmosphere.

Brighton & Hove Pride has once again cemented its status as one of the world’s premier Pride events, and with support from sponsors including New Orleans & Company, this year’s celebration was a resounding success, as the community and allies joined together to party and paint the city rainbow. As the glitter settles, the memories of this extraordinary weekend will continue to unite us all.

For more information on LGBTQ+ New Orleans

For more information on Brighton & Hove Pride 24

St Wulfran’s Church in Ovingdean to host service for LGBTQ+ communities in August – the first time in 1,000 years of its history that blessings for same-sex couples will be possible

Posted on 16/07/2024 by Contributor

St Wulfran’s Church in Ovingdean is to host a special service on Sunday, August 18 for LGBTQ+ communities, which will be using new authorised prayers provided through ‘Prayers of Love and Faith’. These have recently been approved by the Church of England for use in very restricted settings.

St Wulfran’s say: “We held a LGBTQ+ service last year at St Wulfran’s in support of our community and it was really well attended. Dr Sam Hall spoke and it was very moving.

“For us in tiny Ovingdean, this will be an historic moment as it will be the first time in 1,000 years of the history of St Wulfran’s that blessings for same-sex couples will be possible. I’m also not aware of any other churches in the area doing this.”

Geared towards LGBTQ+ people, the service will include a selection of readings and prayers, songs, a short talk, all followed with drinks and nibbles.

Shattering myths and embracing foster care in the LGBTQ+ community this Pride season

Posted on 15/07/2024 by Contributor

Words by Paul Jamieson, COO of Swiis Foster Care

As Pride season sweeps across the UK, bringing with it a wave of celebration, solidarity, and reflection, it’s the perfect time to address some persistent myths surrounding foster care that are disproportionately held by the LGBTQ+ community. Despite progress in fostering inclusivity, misconceptions still deter many from considering fostering. Swiis Foster Care aims to debunk these myths and encourage LGBTQ+ individuals to explore fostering as a viable and rewarding option.

Myth 1: Home ownership is a requirement

One prevalent myth is that potential foster parents must own their own home. Over half of LGBTQ+ respondents (57%) were unsure or believed that home ownership was necessary. This is simply not true. Whether you rent or own, you can be eligible to foster. The critical requirement is that you have a spare room available to provide a safe and comfortable space for a foster child. Home stability and a nurturing environment are what truly matter, not the details of property ownership.

Myth 2: Age limits in fostering

Another widespread misconception is the belief that there is a maximum age limit for fostering. Over half (63%) of LGBTQ+ respondents thought or were unsure if you could foster if you were over 60. The truth is, there is no upper age limit for fostering. As long as you are medically fit and able to provide the care a child or young person needs, you can foster at any age. Your life experience and maturity can be invaluable assets in fostering.

Myth 3: Marital status and fostering

Many believe that you must be married or in a relationship to foster. This myth is surprisingly persistent, with 40% of LGBTQ+ respondents unsure or convinced that single individuals cannot foster. In reality, fostering agencies welcome single carers. Your relationship status does not determine your ability to provide a loving and supportive home. Single individuals are fully capable of meeting the needs of foster children and making a positive impact on their lives, it would however be beneficial for single foster carers to have a strong network of family and friends for support.

Myth 4: Sexuality and eligibility

A third of LGBTQ+ respondents (33%) were either unsure or believed that their sexuality would disqualify them from fostering. This could not be further from the truth. There is no requirement for foster carers to be heterosexual. The fostering system values diversity and inclusivity, recognising that LGBTQ+ individuals and couples can provide the same loving, stable, and supportive environments as their heterosexual counterparts.

Myth 5: Having biological children

Another common myth is the belief that you must have children of your own to be eligible to foster. This misconception was held by a third (33%) of LGBTQ+ respondents. However, having biological children is not a prerequisite for fostering. What matters most is your ability to care for and support a foster child, not whether you have parented before. Many foster carers find their first experience with children deeply enriching and life-changing.

Pride and inclusivity in fostering

Pride season is the perfect time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. It is also a time to reflect on how we can continue to break down barriers and challenge misconceptions. Fostering is an incredible opportunity for LGBTQ+ individuals to extend their support and love to children in need. By fostering, you are not only providing a child with a safe home but also setting an example of inclusivity and acceptance.

Swiis Foster Care is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where LGBTQ+ individuals feel welcomed and supported in their fostering journey. It recognises that every person, regardless of their sexuality, marital status, age, or home ownership status, has the potential to be an exceptional foster carer.

Lisa and Ed’s journey

Lisa and Ed, a same-sex couple who have been fostering with Swiis Foster Care since 2019, have looked after 13 children, some for longer than others. They emphasise the importance of honesty in the fostering process. “We came to Swiis with total transparency,” Lisa said. “Our sexual orientation has never been an issue with both professionals and children alike.” They advise other same-sex couples considering fostering to be open and honest. “As long as you have the time and dedication to give to these young people, you will find it far more rewarding than any financial gain…hearing the children calling us their family and when they tell us they love us is just great.”

Barney and Rajainder’s experience

Barney and his partner Rajainder decided to start fostering after Barney retired from his work in a Community Mental Health Team. They have been fostering since 2019 and have provided care to a diverse range of children, including siblings who thrived under their care.

Reflecting on their journey, Barney said, “We feel privileged to have been part of their lives and given them the confidence and skills to move forward.” They emphasise understanding children’s backgrounds and responding appropriately rather than viewing their behaviours as challenges. “The positive effect that comes with time and consistency can be amazing and gratifying,” Barney noted.

He encourages those in the LGBTQ+ community to consider fostering, highlighting the support and respect they have received from professionals and noting the profound impact they have had on young people’s lives.

If you’ve ever considered fostering but feel held back by any of these myths, reach out to Swiis Foster Care for more informationwww.swiisfostercare.com and connect with other LGBTQ+ foster carers who can share their experiences.

HIV Stigma Sucks: Brighton & Hove to mark Zero HIV Stigma Day on Sunday, July 21

Posted on 12/07/202415/07/2024 by Contributor

Sunday, July 21 marks Zero HIV Stigma Day, a global initiative uniting people and communities to raise awareness of HIV and take action to eliminate HIV stigma in all its forms.

A community event is being held in Jubilee Square, Brighton from 1-2pm in a call to action celebrating people living with HIV overcoming stigma.

Everyone is welcome to this event, bringing people together to hear the experiences of people living with HIV and how to change negative narratives. There will be contributions from supporters and music from Brighton’s LGBTQ+ choir, the Rainbow Chorus.

Almost 40 years ago, the Government’s message was ‘it’s a deadly disease and there’s no known cure.’ While that was true at the time, things have really changed since the fear of the 1980s through to today when people can live a long, healthy life with HIV.

A recent YouGov polling of 2,267 Brits revealed that four in 10 (41%) were uncomfortable going on a date with someone with HIV. While just 16% of respondents are comfortable having sex with someone with HIV who is on effective treatment.

This comes even though people living with HIV who are taking their treatment as prescribed – around 98% of those living with diagnosed HIV in the UK – cannot pass it on to their partners. But worryingly, the data shows less than a quarter of UK adults (23%) know this fact to be true.

More positively, the polling shows 61% of Brits know that someone living with HIV and on treatment can have the same lifespan as anyone else.

HIV is a treatable, manageable health condition, but HIV stigma still hurts and can prevent people from testing or from accessing treatment and care when they are diagnosed. HIV stigma negatively affects quality of life for some people living with HIV, and can make them feel alone and isolated when treated differently to everyone else.

As the UK’s first Fast Track City, Brighton & Hove has been very proactive in addressing HIV stigma and developing its Towards Zero HIV strategy. This project is delivered in partnership, involving people living with HIV and a host of organisations including Brighton & Hove City Council, voluntary sector organisations and community groups and NHS Services.

By 2030, the goal is to achieve:

– ZERO HIV stigma
– ZERO new HIV infections
– ZERO deaths from HIV

In the run up to Zero HIV Stigma Day there is a range of community and awareness raising events:

A new social media campaign raising local awareness of HV stigma.
The More to me than HIV Photographic Exhibition, running 15 – 21 July in Jubilee Library, produced by local people living with HIV.
The Martin Fisher Foundation Bus will be in operation throughout Brighton & Hove on 21 July, displaying awareness messages about HIV stigma.
Education in schools – during July there will talks given by people living with HIV from THT Positive Voices Speakers.
Awareness raising across University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust promoting positive actions to reduce HIV stigma in healthcare settings.
Faith organisations have been asked to emphasise the message that everyone regardless of their HIV status is welcome in their organisations on Sunday, 21 July.

Organisers add: “We can only eliminate stigma if we all act together. We invite the residents of Brighton & Hove to join in the events, circulate on social media and be part of becoming the first Zero HIV Stigma city!”

For more information, CLICK HERE

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Author: Contributor

Prison officer from HMP Aylesbury encourages others from the LGBTQ+ community to join the prison service ahead of National Inclusion Week