HIV and sexual health charity, Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is calling for people in Bristol 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, around 80,000 people are living with HIV and over 7,500 are diagnosed every year.

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

• Monday 1 December from 6.00pm – 9.30pm – An Evening of Remembrance and Celebration
  THT will be holding a special candle-lit vigil at the Unitarian Meeting Place, Brunswick Square, to remember those that have died and to celebrate the lives of those with HIV today. The event is open to all, and will feature poems and readings from guest speakers, as well as a presentation on the global issues of HIV and AIDS.

• Monday 1 December from 8.00am – 6.00pm - street collection across Bristol
  Staff and volunteers from THT will be out in force across the city to raise awareness of HIV, giving out red ribbons and asking for donations. Locations include the City Centre, Broadmead, Clifton Village and Gloucester Road.

• Monday 1 December from 5.00pm – 7.30pm – Fastest HIV testing
  THT’s Fastest service offers a rapid HIV testing service for anyone concerned they may have been exposed to HIV. The weekly service is walk-in so you don’t have to make an appointment.  Results are available within an hour. A maximum of 13 people can be tested at each session, so arrive promptly to ensure your space.

• Multiple dates – Raising Awareness in Schools
  In the weeks around World AIDS Day, THT will be promoting its one-hour Basic HIV Awareness training which is available to all schools and colleges across Bristol, North Somerset, B&NES and South Gloucestershire. This training is part-delivered by people living with HIV and is offered throughout the year. Further information and a booking form can be obtained from the Bristol office.

Steve Jones, from Terrence Higgins Trust in Bristol, 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 Bristol, please contact 0117 955 1000.

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Notes to Editor

1. Terrence Higgins Trust is the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity with centres across England, Scotland and Wales. We're here to provide information and advice about HIV and sexual health and offer a range of services including sexual health checks, counselling and support groups.  We campaign for a world where people with HIV live healthy lives, free from prejudice and discrimination and we promote good sexual health as a right and reality for all. Terrence Higgins Trust relies on donations to deliver a wide range of services. To make a donation, visit www.tht.org.uk