Welsh Government must act further for people living with HIV

A new report, Living Well with HIV in Wales, highlights action that is now needed from the Welsh Government to tackle inequalities and further improve the quality of life for people living with HIV.

The Government’s HIV Action Plan, which aims to end new HIV transmissions in Wales by 2030, included important commitments to support people to live well with HIV. The Government’s support for the HIV response to date is strongly welcomed, and has led to significant progress. Now, a year since the plan’s publication this report highlights three key areas that need further action:

1: Champion mental health and wellbeing

The report uncovers a gap in mental health support for people living with HIV. With two in five people living with HIV in the UK having a diagnosed mental health condition, many are still being left without adequate psychological support.

The Welsh Government must secure long-term funding for HIV peer support networks, and ensure that HIV services meet the British HIV Association (BHIVA) standards for psychological support

2: Support ageing well with HIV

Over half of those living with HIV in the UK are now over 50. Welsh services are underprepared for the growing needs of this community, who often face loneliness as well as multiple health conditions.

The Welsh Government must expand training programmes for NHS staff, and replicate successful existing initiatives like the Welsh ‘HIV GP Champion’ programme to empower primary care teams to deliver person-centred and coordinated care.

3: End HIV inequalities

The report reveals barriers faced by under-served communities in accessing HIV prevention, testing and treatment, a situation exacerbated by poverty and discrimination.

Policy makers must strengthen partnerships and involve community-led organisations in HIV service development and practice. The Welsh Government must support laws, policies, public education campaigns and services that tackle HIV stigma discrimination.

James Cole, Senior Policy, Research and Influencing Manager at National AIDS Trust, said:

“This report highlights the urgent need for coordinated action from policymakers, healthcare providers and communities. With bold leadership and targeted investment, Wales can lead the way in transforming HIV care and support, ensuring that every person living with HIV thrives, not just survives.”

Sarah Maslen, Fast Track Cymru Manager said:

“Fast Track Cymru are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the National AIDS Trust on this project. We are fortunate in Wales to have an impactful HIV Action Plan which is constantly being referred to and there has been lots of progress already in Wales over the last couple of years. I have no doubt that the Welsh Government will continue to push this work forward and Fast Track Cymru will continue to collaborate with our vast network of organisations and individuals to support this.”

Dr Alessandro Ceccarelli, one of the co-founders of Fast Track Cymru initiative and Trustee of the National AIDS Trust, said:

“It was truly inspiring to witness the impactful collaboration between Sarah’s team at Fast Track Cymru and the National AIDS Trust. This partnership exemplifies how working together can amplify the voices of people living with HIV in Wales, ensuring their experiences and needs are at the forefront. I’m confident that this joint effort will shape and strengthen the support for our communities in the years to come.”

Zoe Couzens, Fast Track Cymru Board Member and Sexual Health Programme Lead said:

“Fast Track Cymru looks forward to continuing to work with the Welsh Government over the next two years of the Action Plan, and beyond, to support people in Wales living with HIV.”