World AIDS Day: How You Can Help

1st December 2021 is World Aids Day: a day for people to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support to those living with the illness, and to remember those who have passed away from an AIDS related illness. HIV/AIDS is an illness that effects millions of people globally, as well as hundreds of thousands of people in the UK. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, it has been responsible for the deaths of over 35 million people, making it one of the deadliest pandemics in history.

There have been so many advances made in the treatment and diagnosis of HIV/AIDS that it is now possible to live a long and healthy life with the correct medication. Many people are now classed as untraceable, which means that they cannot pass HIV onto another person. The National AIDS Trust uses donations to help spread information on the virus, increase awareness, fight prejudice, and fund testing. As it stands, even though people live long and healthy lives with HIV, it is incurable – once you have it, you have it for life. We've made a list of a few suggestions of how to support people with the virus - check them out below. For more information, visit the World AIDS Day website, and the National AIDS Trust website. 

 

Buying a Red Ribbon

 

World AIDS Day is an opportunity for people to show solidarity and support to those who have HIV/AIDS worldwide. Many decide to buy and wear a red ribbon on the day as a symbol of this support – they can be bought from the World AIDS Day online shop, and all of your money goes straight back into supporting those living with this virus.

 

Fundraising

 

You can order a free pack of 100 red ribbons to fundraise for the National AIDS Trust, as well as a fundraising pack with plenty of ideas to help you raise as much money for the cause as you can. Fundraising is a great way to not only raise valuable funds, but to also spread awareness in the community and show solidarity with those in your community who may be affected by this issue.

 

What can I do after World AIDS Day?

 

Even though World AIDS Day is only once a year, there are many ways you can show your support all year round. The National AIDS Trust has a mailing list that sends emails containing any updates on developments within HIV. There are also opportunities for volunteering and activism work – both things that can really help to change the lives of those with HIV/AIDS.