First Response | We Were Always Here

In 1987, 71,751 cases of AIDS had been reported to the world health organisation. They estimated that 5-10 million people were living with HIV worldwide. The epidemic didn’t just affect individuals, it impacted households, and communities. Against the backdrop of a conversative government with Section 28 just around the corner, there was a tradition of volunteering and community involvement and a very ‘English’ approach to fighting the system. People looked out for people. And that was true of the response to the AIDS epidemic.You just had to find yours. This was the start of the response. 

We Were Always Here is produced and sound designed by Hana Walker-Brown

This is a Broccoli Production.

If you have been affected by the themes in this episode a list of resources and helplines can be found below:

The Love Tank

The Love Tank is a not-for-profit community interest community (CIC) that promotes health and wellbeing of under served communities through education, capacity building + research.

http://thelovetank.info

Body and Soul Charity

Tel: 020 7923 6880

bodyandsoulcharity.org

Body & Soul is a pioneering UK charity dedicated to transforming the lives of children, teenagers and families living with, or affected by HIV.

Terrence Higgins Trust

Helpline: 0808 802 1221

tht.org.uk

Offers free and confidential services for people with HIV and AIDS, including specialist advice and representation on welfare rights, housing and legal matters, practical help and befriending. See website for local centres.

Positively UK

Tel: 020 7713 0444

positivelyuk.org

We are here to help all individuals living with HIV in the UK to live well. From diagnosis and starting treatment to talking about your HIV with others, your relationships, and employment options, Positively UK will support you to manage all aspects of your HIV and help you to achieve the best for your physical and emotional well-being. Our front-line staff and volunteers are themselves living with HIV and have first-hand experience of the issues you may face.

The National AIDS Trust

nat.org.uk

NAT is the UK's leading charity dedicated to transforming society's response to HIV. We provide fresh thinking, expert advice and practical resources. We campaign for change.

CHIVA (Children’s HIV Association)

chiva.org.uk

CHIVA work with professionals to provide the best possible care and services for children, young people and families living with HIV, as well as working with parents to provide information to support them in the issues HIV presents within the family. They also work with young people living with HIV through a youth committee and consultations to ensure they are provided  with the information they need and that their voices are heard throughout their work and in the wider community.

NAM Aidsmap

aidsmap.com

Information, news and resources for people with HIV and AIDS, comprehensive information on treatments and a database of HIV clinics in the UK.

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