Posted Tuesday 24 January 2012
The beneficiary of this year’s Bishop’s Lent Appeal is Waverley Care, a charity which has, for 21 years been providing care and support to people who are living with or affected by HIV.
In many ways, the nature of HIV has changed. It is no longer a terminal condition and, with the right treatment and support, people can live relatively normal lives. What hasn’t changed, however, is the stigma of HIV. Those who live with HIV live with the added burden of secrecy, with both adults and children being unable to confide in friends or neighbours for fear of being judged or victimised. People live in constant fear of others finding out. The impact of stigma on emotional and spiritual health is profound.
This is where Waverley Care’s work can make such a difference. The charity is there to provide support to everyone whose lives are affected by HIV. They work with adults and children from across every sector of society. HIV doesn’t discriminate; anyone can be affected. Through one-to-one and group support, Waverley Care can turn lives around, rebuilding self-confidence and helping people to know that they are valued, loved and cared for.
Category: Bishop's Office
