The Department of Health works with the National AIDS Trust (NAT) to undertake activities around World AIDS Day. The activities in 2001 included a pilot campaign to address issues of prejudice and discrimination towards those living with HIV/AIDS. By tackling this stigma, in line with the National Strategy for Sexual Health and HIV, we hope to improve people's ability and willingness to access HIV services (including testing) and treatments. The campaign (aimed at the general population) also provides a means of awareness raising and sources of further confidential information and advice. Following the successful evaluation of this pilot, the campaign was rolled-out nationally for 2002 and 2003. For further information on the campaign and future initiatives visit www.areyouhivprejudiced.org

From 5th December 2005 it is now unlawful to discriminate against people living with HIV in the workplace, effectively from the point of diagnosis. This is because the Disability Discrimination Act 2005 came into effect. Whether it's fear and ignorance about how HIV is transmitted, dislike of groups of people most affected or disapproval of other people's behaviour, HIV discrimination is a real issue in the workplace. But now people don't have to put up with it. Click here or the graphic below to download an Acrobat PDF information document from the National AIDS Trust information about these important changes. Details about these rights and other information on discrimination in the workplace are available from the National AIDS Trust Website:

www.nat.org.uk

You can view their information leaflets - 'Positively Employed' and 'HIV & your disability equality scheme' in downloadable Acrobat PDF format by clicking the icons below.