Eastbourne MP Stephen Lloyd will be visiting HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust’s (THT) centre on Wednesday 1 September at 11am. During his visit, Stephen 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 South East Coast show that in 2008 alone, there were likely to be around 5,400 people living with HIV in the region. In the same year 455 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 Eastbourne including

• Support groups
• Specialist support for people living with HIV to help them manage the condition effectively
• Assistance accessing grants, respite and complementary therapies
• Education for the community about HIV and sexually transmitted infections

Stephen Lloyd, MP said: “I am full of admiration of the wonderful work that is being done by Terrence Higgins Trust here in Eastbourne.  It is so important for people living with HIV to have all the help and support they need to lead healthy, normal lives. Terrence Higgins Trust is an organisation with a well deserved reputation and one which I will continue to support both locally and nationally.”

Sue Peters, Regional Delivery Manager for THT said:“We are delighted to welcome Stephen Lloyd to our service in Eastbourne 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.”

Ends

Notes to Editor

1. 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