HIV and sexual health charity, Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is calling for people in Brighton to get involved in World AIDS Day (December 1) this year, either by attending an event, making a donation to support local HIV services, or wearing a red ribbon to raise awareness.

World AIDS Day, which has been running every December since 1988, is dedicated to raising awareness of the disease. In the UK alone, more than 70,000 people are living with HIV and over 7,500 are diagnosed every year.

The following events are taking place in Brighton for World AIDS Day:

• All faiths and none – Saturday 1st December, 6.45pm
  A service for anyone affected by HIV and AIDS. This will be quiet space to remember those who have died with AIDS as well as celebrating the lives of those living with HIV. The service will include a candle lighting ceremony, as well as performances from two choirs, and one group who will choose appropriate music that will be uplifting yet sensitive as we look at the past, present and future of HIV in the UK and globally. The service will finish with some readings and a personal account about what is like to live with HIV.
  Venue: Chapel Royal, 164 North Street, Brighton BN1 1EA.

Sue Peters, from Terrence Higgins Trust in Brighton said “HIV has been around for 25 years now and many people have lost partners, family or friends.  World AIDS Day is an opportunity for the community to remember those who have died and to celebrate the lives of those with HIV today.  Even if they can’t attend we hope that local people will get involved in some way, perhaps donating to the cause or just wearing a red ribbon to raise awareness.”   

If you’d like further information on any of the World AIDS Day events going on in Brighton, please contact Terrence Higgins Trust on 01273 764 200.

Notes to Editors

1. Terrence Higgins Trust is the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity, providing a wide range of services across England, Wales and Scotland.  The charity also campaigns and lobbies for greater political and public understanding of the personal, social and medical impact of HIV and sexual ill health.