World AIDS Day is marked annually on 1 December as a global movement to unite people in the fight against HIV and AIDS. It was founded in 1988 and continues as a way to show strength and solidarity against HIV stigma and to remember lives lost.

The National AIDS Trust states: “World AIDS Day exists to shine a light on the real experiences of people living with HIV today, while celebrating the strength, resilience and diversity of the communities most affected.”

The red ribbon is a universal symbol of awareness and support for people living with HIV.

Local organisations and information about support

There are a number of organisations local to Brighton and Hove which work with people living with HIV, deliver HIV awareness campaigns, and offer training and health advice.

Terrance Higgins Trust

Terrance Higgins Trust are a leading HIV and sexual health charity in the UK. 

“We support people living with HIV and amplify their voices, and help the people using our services to achieve good sexual health.”

Lunch Positive

Lunch Positive is a Brighton charity offering a community space to people living with HIV.

“We aim to create spaces where everyone feels comfortable and included – a great way to make new friends and to find peer support!”

Martin Fisher Foundation

“The Martin Fisher Foundation's vision is to eliminate new HIV cases within a generation by increasing HIV testing, through improving knowledge of HIV, increasing availability PrEP and reducing HIV stigma. Our purpose is to facilitate the city-wide HIV response wherever possible.”

Events taking place in Brighton & Hove to mark World AIDS Day

Brighton AIDS Memorial Vigil 

The Brighton AIDS Memorial Vigil will be held at New Steine Gardens, Brighton on 1 December at 6pm. The annual Brighton AIDS Memorial Vigil is hosted by Brighton & Hove World AIDS Day Community Partnership.

All welcome to attend the remembrance event of those lost to HIV/AIDS in Brighton & Hove. There will be a reading of the names and a candlelight vigil. Space will be available for anyone seeking quiet moments of reflection.

Brighton & Hove World AIDS Day Charity Concert

St Mary’s Church, Kemptown

Actually Gay Men’s Chorus, Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus and Rainbow Chorus are once again jointly producing this year’s fundraising concert to mark World AIDS Day (WAD). This year’s concert features a diverse range of performances from some of Brighton’s most beloved musical ensembles. 

All profits from ticket sales and refreshments, as well as a bucket collection and raffle on the night, will be donated to local Brighton charity, Lunch Positive, who provide unique community based support for people who are HIV positive.

LGBTIQ+ History Club: Marking World AIDS Day 2024

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Marking 40 years since the formation of the Sussex AIDS Helpline, to commemorate World AIDS Day this year, Queer History Club has invited the presenters of HIV Hour - David Fray and Josh Sharpe - to interview two writers whose books tell the stories of people grappling with the challenges of that decade.

Support at Sussex

The University takes incidents of discrimination, bullying and harassment, victimisation and violence very seriously. For more information, including routes for reporting please see the Dignity, Respect and Inclusion policy page. 

If you or someone else has experienced behaviours such as bullying, harassment, a hate incident, sexual violence, domestic abuse or discrimination, use our Report and Support tool to let us know.

Students can also find a number of resources and support at the Student Centre.

There are a range of wellbeing resources and support available on the Staff Wellbeing Hub, including the Employee Assistance Programme and Guidance for Managers. There are also peer-led Staff Networks.

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