Terrence Higgins Trust marks 30th anniversary at annual East of England conference
HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust will mark its 30th anniversary by holding an HIV conference for the East of England on Wednesday 13th February. The event, which will run from 10am to 4.30pm at the Colchester Institute on Sheepen Road in Colchester, will provide a chance for delegates to reflect on the progress the HIV sector has made over the last 30 years, and look ahead to tackling new challenges in years to come.
The event is open to people with a professional interest in HIV, such as health or social care workers, as well as those who are living with or affected by the condition. Speakers will include Sarah Dermont, from Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, who will talk about preconception and pregnancy; and Michael Albero, Interim Country Director at HIV charity Mildmay International, who will give a presentation about AIDS Dementia. Terrence Higgins Trust’s Policy Director Lisa Power will also address delegates about new challenges faced by the sector as the first generation of people with HIV enters old age.
The latest figures released by the Health Protection Agency revealed that there were 4,703 people accessing HIV care in the East of England in 2011, an increase of six per cent on the previous year.
Natasha Pearce, Case Manager for Terrence Higgins Trust in Colchester said, “There are more people living with HIV in the East of England than ever before. Our 30th anniversary conference is a chance to look back at the history of the HIV epidemic, how attitudes have changed and how the prognosis for people living with HIV in the UK has improved. We will also be exploring 21st century challenges, such as how society can support the growing number of adults over the age of 50 who are living with HIV in this country today. We welcome anyone with an interest in this subject to get in touch and register for what promises to be a fascinating day.”
Terrence Higgins Trust’s 14th annual conference for the East of England will take place on Wednesday 13th February from 10am to 4.30pm at the Colchester Institute, Sheepen Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3LL. People can register to attend for free by contacting Natasha Pearce on 07825 100 930 or by emailing natasha.pearce@tht.org.uk.