Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) has been awarded £70,000 from the Department for Innovation Universities and Skills (DIUS) for a new project called LearningPlus. The grant will be used for people living with HIV to become Positive Self-Management Programme (PSMP) Lead Trainers or PSMP Facilitators. The Lead Trainers and Facilitators will go on to deliver PSMP courses to help people with HIV across England to become experts in their own condition. The LearningPlus training opportunities will commence from January until March next year.

LearningPlus aims to empower people living with HIV to take more control of their health. The course will address issues including relaxation techniques, exercise, healthy eating, dealing with depression, communicating with family, friends and health professionals, as well as planning for the future. The classes also provide an ideal opportunity to meet other people with HIV and share experiences – and are a great way to build confidence and take control.

Andrew Smith, Director of Health Improvement and Service Development for THT said “HIV can have a huge impact on someone’s life. LearningPlus aims to help people cope with and manage their condition effectively. It’s about making people experts in their own condition, so they can manage it better day to day. It’s also an opportunity for people to meet others in a similar situation and share experiences.”

Once up and running courses will be held at venues across England. For further information on LearningPlus contact Andrew Smith on 020 7812 1861 or email andrew.smith@tht.org.uk .  

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