HIV charity urges Aberdeen to Stand Up and Stand Out for World AIDS Day
HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland is calling on people in Aberdeen to stand up against HIV-related stigma this World AIDS Day (1st December). The charity’s Stand Up, Stand Out campaign aims to raise funds for people living with HIV and banish the stigma that still exists around the condition today. It is also planning a number of local events in partnership with HIV charity Gay Men’s Health.
There are now over 100,000 people living with HIV in the UK – more than ever before. World AIDS Day is an international event that has been running since 1988 and is dedicated to raising awareness of HIV and AIDS.
In Aberdeen this World AIDS Day, Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland and HIV charity Gay Men’s Health are partnering with travel company First Bus, who will run an awareness-raising poster campaign on local buses, and in the company’s travel shop and depot. First Bus will also be selling red ribbons from the First Travel Shop at 47 Union Street, with proceeds being divided between the two charities.
Other events and activities planned in Aberdeen this World AIDS Day include:
Saturday 1st December; 3.00pm – 5.00pm
246 George Street, Aberdeen
Gay Men’s Health and Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland will be throwing open the doors of their shared office on George Street for a free information session. Staff will be on hand to answer questions about HIV and provide information and resources to help visitors gain a better understanding of the importance of good sexual health. There will also be a memorial book available for visitors to sign in remembrance of those who have died of AIDS and to celebrate the lives of those with HIV today.
Saturday 1st December; 5.00pm – 6.00pm
Pittodrie Bar, 339 King Street, Aberdeen
A football signed by the entire team of Aberdeen FC will be star prize in a charity raffle at the Pittodrie Bar, with the money raised being divided between Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland and Gay Men’s Health.
Saturday 1st December; 9.30pm – 12.00pm
Cheerz, 2 Exchange Street, Aberdeen
Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland and Gay Men’s Health will co-host this special red-themed party with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. Guests, who are invited to dress in their best red outfits, can expect entertainment from the fabulous Miss Romy Deepcheeks and the hilarious Patrice (Hairdresser to the Stars). Entry is £3, with all proceeds going to the World AIDS Day 2012 fund for people living with HIV in Grampian.
People can also organise their own red themed event or sell red ribbons to raise funds to support people living with HIV. Visit www.tht.org.uk/worldaidsday for more information and fundraising ideas, to order your free box of red ribbons or to make a donation online.
Robert McKay, National Director for Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland, said: “A third of people with HIV in the UK say they have experienced discrimination because of their condition – this is something that urgently needs to change. By joining our Stand Up, Stand Out campaign this year, people in Aberdeen have a chance to help us banish HIV-related stigma for good. There are so many ways to take part, from joining in one of our events, to planning your own activities, to simply making a donation or wearing a red ribbon to show your support.
“The funds we raise this World AIDS Day will help people with HIV access the support and services they need.”
For more information on World AIDS Day events or Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland’s services in Aberdeen please contact Carina Ebdy on 07789 408209, or email carina.ebdy@tht.org.uk.