Thanks to advances in treatment, people living with HIV can expect to live long, healthy lives and, when on effective treatment, cannot pass the virus on. Despite this, many people continue to experience stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings.
By signing up to the HIV Confident Charter Mark, the Trust is committing to increasing understanding of HIV, tackling stigma and ensuring people living with HIV receive compassionate, equitable care.
As part of the programme, the Trust will introduce anti-stigma training, strengthen reporting processes for incidents of stigma, and evaluate the impact of this work.
The Trust is already making a significant contribution through the national Blood Borne Virus Opt-Out Testing Programme in A&E, with 105 new HIV and hepatitis diagnoses made since October 2024.
Kirsten Major, Chief Executive at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said:
"Our commitment to the HIV Confident programme reflects our determination to challenge stigma and discrimination. By increasing knowledge and strengthening support for people living with HIV, we will create an inclusive environment where our staff and patients feel supported and able to thrive."
