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HIV/AIDS
HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, which provides a natural defence system against disease and infection.HIV can be passed on through:
- unprotected sexual intercourse (vaginal, oral or anul) without using a condom
- sharing contaminated needles, syringes and 'works'
- from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding
- from contaminated blood or blood products
If you are diagnosed with HIV it affects you, your partner and your friends. We provide confidential services for anyone affected by HIV/AIDS.
Counselling and emotional support
You may want to discuss your fears and anxieties and it can be difficult for you to talk about your thoughts and feelings with your family. We offer emotional and psychological support in a confidential and non judgmental environment.
Financial advice
You may find you have extra expenses as a result of your illness. We can offer advice to make sure you are claiming all the benefits and other financial support you could be entitled to. We can also offer advice on support that could help you continue to work.
Practical assistance
You may find you have physical difficulties with daily living, or need help travelling to hospital appointments. We can work with you to help solve these problems.
For more information:
- call the adult social care helpdesk on 023 9268 0810
- get in touch with Positive Action on 01252 345019 or visit the website at http://www.positiveaction.org.uk/
- contact Inscape at 373-375 Old Commercial Road, Portsmouth, PO1 4QL or call them on 023 9229 8950
- call the National AIDS Helpline free on 0800 567 123 or, for other languages, call 0800 717 2227
