Ending new cases of HIV in 2030, and tackling stigma: Why National AIDS Trust Need Your Votes this April

For the past 30 years, the National AIDS Trust has been changing lives in the UK. Their focus has always been the same: ending new cases of HIV, and tackling the stigma faced by so many people on a daily basis. As we launch our charity vote here at My Favourite Voucher Codes e, I think they are an organisation that definitely merits consideration. Your free vote this month can help this incredible charity to win donation of 20% of our profits, and help those affected by HIV.

A reputation built on changing lives

The National AIDS Trust has been going about its work since 1987, but it has been the past decade in which they have made the most real progress in changing the UK’s approach to the disease. Their focus has been simple: they want to end new cases of HIV, but they are equally keen to ensure that those living with the disease are able to do so without stigma.

One of the most notable things they have done has been to successfully challenge NHS England in the courts in 2016, which ensured that the preventative treatment PrEP is made available across the country. This has been a real breakthrough in the fight against the disease, one which has been as much about changing the headlines as changing the numbers.

Progress in the fight against HIV

However, what has most impressed me about the National AIDS Trust has been the scope of what they are doing to tackle the problem of HIV in the UK. Instead of focusing on one aspect, they are looking at the whole spectrum, from education to policy, to enable individuals to protect themselves from the virus.

They’ve also been at the forefront in campaigning for sex and relationship education, to enable individuals to make informed decisions regarding their own health. This groundwork has been what has brought us closer to our goal of a future free from new cases of HIV by 2030.

Standing up for those living with HIV

However, a huge part of life for those living with HIV, is how they are treated by others. This is why the National AIDS Trust also offers direct support to those who have been treated unfairly because of their HIV status. They provide support for people through their discrimination casework service, helping people who have experienced discrimination in a range of settings.  

They’ve also been at the forefront in fighting for fair and equal healthcare for all, ensuring no one is left behind, and ensuring that individuals do not just survive, but thrive. They also advocate for policies that promote access to healthcare, ensuring that no one is denied essential care due to HIV stigma, or social or economic barriers.

Tackling stigma head-on

However, if there has been one thing that has most hindered our progress in fighting HIV, it has been the stigma associated with it. This has meant that those living with HIV continue to be misunderstood and treated poorly, largely due to outdated beliefs and misconceptions associated with HIV.

However, this has not stopped the National AIDS Trust, and they’ve been working hard to change the conversation around HIV, to enable individuals to understand HIV better. They also collaborate with organisations and individuals to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote a culture of inclusivity and respect.

Why your vote matters

The simple truth is, this work can only continue if it is supported.

If, like me, you think the work of the National AIDS Trust is essential to tackle HIV and support those living with it, then voting for National AIDS Trust is one way you can help them for free this month. Voting in our current charity poll, which is running throughout April, is one thing we can do to help make a difference and help fund projects in areas such as education, prevention, and advocacy, and supporting those who need our help most.

But, and most important of all, it is a vote for a future without fear and stigma, a future in which we can all be treated with dignity and respect.

It's not just voting for National AIDS Trust, it's voting for a future in which we are all a part, a future in which HIV does not prevent us from living our lives.