Twice as many men as women have HIV in Kirklees

Dec 1 2009 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

It is believed almost half the HIV sufferers in Kirklees are also classed as deprived.

John McKernaghan, manager of the Brunswick Centre – a charity providing sexual health, HIV and AIDs services across Kirklees and Calderdale – said: “The impact of an HIV diagnosis can be enormous and unlike most other health conditions carries a stigma which often manifests in prejudice and discrimination.

“The Brunswick Centre works hard to challenge the stigma associated with HIV, ensuring people with the virus and their families get the advocacy, support and services they need to improve and maintain a good quality of life.

“The charity also provides HIV prevention services in Kirklees working with and for communities most at risk of HIV infection and sexual ill heath.”

To mark the awareness day, Kirklees Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Community Network are holding a question and answer session tomorrow between 6pm and 8pm.

The event is open to LGBT communities, their families, friends and supporters.

For more information contactLesley Hedges by emailing:

lesley.hedges54@hotmail.com