Herts Aid is an HIV and sexual health charity that provides practical and emotional support to anyone affected by or infected with HIV/AIDS and enable people to make informed choices about their lives. We provide sexual health education and training to schools, colleges, other organisations and professionals in addition to clinical services including rapid HIV testing and chlamydia screening and raise awareness of HIV and sexual health to challenge stigma.
Why the community needs usHertfordshire has the highest rate of HIV in the region with 3 Department of Health HIV 'hot spots' in Watford, Welwyn Hatfield and Stevenage having higher than average HIV infection rates. We have two drop in centres in Ware and Watford, where people living with HIV can meet others in a safe, confidential environment or anyone can have an HIV test, access condoms and information and advice. We work across Hertfordshire providing sexual health education, training and challenging stigma.
Our impact on the communityTo empower people living with HIV to live positively with their diagnosis free from discrimination and stigma. We aim to work with young people in schools and colleges and other organisations to make informed choices about sex and relationships and ensure that they receive the age appropriate information they need and signpost to other services. We aim to provide free clinical services such as confidential rapid HIV testing, Chlamydia screening and condoms in community settings.
Yes: we have a variety of volunteer roles including fundraising, administration, befriending, Community Champions, outreach and clinical services including rapid HIV testing. All Volunteers will receive a basic HIV and AIDS Awareness Training and we are committed to the Volunteer Management 6 Point Promise awarded by Volunteer Centres in Hertfordshire. After training, Herts Aid Volunteers are expected to give a minimum of four hours per month.
