'˜Let's end the stigma about living with HIV' - Falkirk MSP

Falkirk West MSP Michael Matheson is backing a campaign aimed at ending HIV-related ignorance and discrimination in Scotland.

He met representatives of HIV Scotland at the Scottish Parliament this week, ahead of today’s World AIDS Day events.

The charity has launched a book, “Disclosures: Rewriting the Narrative About HIV”, which contains poetry, stories, artwork and non-fiction aimed at demolishing the myths about what it means to be someone living with HIV in Scotland today.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Mr Matheson said: “Stigma is still a huge issue for people with HIV and is one of the biggest barriers to testing – and if people aren’t diagnosed, it means they can’t access vital treatment and support.

“People with HIV often fear revealing their status to partners, family and friends, which can lead to isolation and mental health problems.

“By addressing HIV-related stigma and social exclusion, we can make a real difference to the lives of people with HIV.

“HIV Scotland’s new book is a great tool to educate and inform people about the modern-day realities of living with the virus and I’m proud to support the charity’s work.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

There are 5213 people diagnosed as living with HIV in Scotland, with 368 new cases reported in 2017, however it is believed 13 per cent of people who have the virus are unaware of their status.

A person with HIV who is successfully on treatment can achieve an undetectable level of the virus, which means not only will they be healthier than someone who is undiagnosed but they will also not pass on the virus to others.

Nathan Sparling, interim chief executive of HIV Scotland, said: “Scotland has all the right tools to reach zero new HIV infections.

“It’s fantastic to see MSPs supporting the launch of our stigma-busting book, which brings together people living with and affected by HIV to take part in creative activism to change the narrative of HIV in Scotland.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

World AIDS Day is held on December 1 each year to remember the 35 million people who have died worldwide from AIDS-related illnesses, to raise awareness to prevent new cases of HIV - and to stand in solidarity with people living with the virus.