Colchester MP Bob Russell will be visiting HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust’s (THT) centre on Wednesday 18th August at 2pm. During his visit, Bob will meet staff and local service users to find out first hand about the issues facing people in the region when it comes to HIV and sexual health. 

Figures from the East of England show that in 2008 alone, 3,949 people in the region needed HIV care. In the same year 461 people were newly diagnosed with HIV. As the new government takes shape it’s crucial that MPs are aware of local issues, including whether current sexual health services meet people’s needs.  

THT provides a dedicated range of sexual health services for people living with HIV in Colchester including:

• Support groups
• Advice about benefits, employment, immigration and housing
• Legal advice
• Assistance accessing grants, respite and complementary therapies
• Counselling
• Education for the community about HIV and sexually transmitted infections

Colchester MP Bob Russell said: “Many people think of Terrence Higgins Trust purely as a national organisation, which clearly it is, but it is also very much part of the local scene in different parts of the country as is the case here in Colchester.”

“I am therefore delighted to have the opportunity to see the work that THT is doing for people living with HIV in Colchester, and how important it is that this work continues.”

Sue Peters, Regional Delivery Manager for THT said: “We are delighted to welcome Bob Russell to our service in Colchester today. Government interest in THT’s work comes at a crucial time when such vitally needed support services must be recognised and sustained for the years ahead. More people are living with HIV than ever before and we can not afford to ignore the issues.”
 
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Notes to Editor

Terrence Higgins Trust is the UK’s largest 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