SHIP HIT supports World AIDS Day 2021 events in Bristol

Bristol Health Partners’ Sexual Health Improvement Health Integration team (SHIP HIT) is supporting Brigstowe in a programme of events to mark World AIDS Day, 1 December 2021.

The programme starts with the annual flag raising event outside City Hall on 22 November and includes an evening vigil on 1 December, when City Hall, Bristol Temple Meads and Ashton Gate Stadium will be lit up red.

A mix of virtual and in person events are on offer. See some of the highlights below or download the full programme, which includes details of all the organisations involved.

World AIDS Day programme highlights

Monday 22 November 11am – City Hall
Raising of the Red Ribbon Flag

Tuesday 23 November 6pm-7.30pm – Zoom
Living through Two Pandemics
Register
Join Dr Max Morris as he presents preliminary results from a study looking at the experiences of people living with HIV, and how the response to the COVID-19 pandemic contrasts with the response to the AIDS pandemics. Followed by a panel discussion.

Wednesday 24 November 6pm-8pm – Zoom
Chem Sex in the City
The Diversity Trust are proud to team up with Brigstowe to host an online round table discussion on chem sex and the impact on communities. To book, email [email protected]

Saturday 27 November 6pm-8.30pm Watershed OR Zoom
World AIDS Day Celebration – supported by Bristol Health Partners
Register preferred attendance option
A hybrid event designed to be as accessible as possible and to ensure attendees feel safe. Come in person at the Watershed or join us live on Zoom. We will hear some important updates from Bristol Fast Track Cities, Common Ambition Bristol and Unity Sexual Health Services intermixed with powerful personal testimonies and a performance from Sing Out Bristol.

Tuesday 30 November 1pm-3pm – Easton Community Centre /
Free HIV Awareness Training
Register
Are you a professional supporting service users or do you provide colleague support (team leader/supervisor/HR)? Or are you a person who runs or who is involved in a community group? Or would you just like to know more about HIV? The session will clarify the differences between HIV & AIDS, explain how HIV is transmitted and can be prevented, provide you with up-to-date information on treatment, explore stigma and prejudice, outline where you can get tested and inform you of the support available. A person living with HIV will share their experience to help you understand what living with HIV is like today.

Wednesday 1 December 6.30pm-7.30pm – St James’ Priory
World AIDS Day Vigil
Register
It is important to provide a space for the community to remember and reflect on loved ones lost to HIV and AIDS. This candlelit vigil will be joined by various speakers and The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. Attendees are invited to bring their own personal thoughts, reflections or readings if they would like to share.

Can you lend a hand on World AIDS Day?

On 1 December, Brigstowe will be at Bristol Temple Meads train station, raising awareness, handing out ribbons and raising vital funds for their work supporting people living with HIV in Bristol.

If you could spare a couple of hours between 7am – 7pm to join Brigstowe’s team of volunteers, please email: [email protected]

Image credit: KSAG Photography