Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is to launch three support groups in the New Year all aimed at gay men living with HIV in Brighton & Hove. Two groups; the Lounge (for men who have been living with HIV for a year or more) and What Next? (for men recently diagnosed with HIV), are being re-launched after running successfully in 2010. In addition THT are starting a new support group called H2, for men living with HIV and Hepatitis C. Limited places are available for all three groups, so the charity is appealing to those interested to get in touch and book their place now.

THT is launching H2 in response to a growing number of cases of Hepatitis C infection in HIV positive men. In Brighton and London alone, over 400 gay men living with HIV have been diagnosed with Hepatitis C over the last 5 years. Both conditions can be complex and research shows that people co-infected with HIV and Hepatitis C are more likely to develop liver disease than people infected only with HIV. H2 is a 6 week course which will offer a supportive environment in which to explore issues including diagnosis, treatment and living with HIV and Hepatitis C.

The other support groups, The Lounge and What Next? are re-launching for 2011. What Next? is a 6 week course designed to support newly diagnosed men and help answer some of the many questions people might have when first diagnosed. Topics for discussion will include finding out you have HIV, telling people, health, sex and love, dealing with medical staff and information on HIV, treatment and transmission. The Lounge is a relaxed informal group for gay men who have been diagnosed with HIV for a year or more. It's a space where men can meet up every fortnight to share experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

Peter Boorman, Health Promotion Co-ordinator for Terrence Higgins Trust said "Living with HIV can be tough emotionally and well as physically. Many men feel they could do with some extra help in some way, whether it's talking about how to cope with being newly diagnosed, or addressing particular needs that come from living with HIV and Hepatitis C. Each group is designed to meet the specific needs that men might have. They'll also give men the opportunity to meet others in the same situation, share experiences and get practical support in a relaxed, informal environment. So if you're interested, please get in touch to find out more."

What Next? The Lounge and H2 begin in January.

Source:
Terrence Higgins Trust