World Aids Day 2025 - Let’s end the stigma and stop HIV in its tracks

Today is World AIDS Day – a moment to remember the lives tragically lost, to stand with friends, family and neighbours living with HIV and to reaffirm our commitment to ending the stigma and eradicating HIV.

Since 1988, communities have stood together on World AIDS Day to show strength and solidarity. More than 105,000 people are living with HIV in the UK and an estimated 38 million people live with the virus globally. More than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS related illnesses over the past 40 years, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.

On the eve of World Aids Day two years ago Blackpool council signed the Fast-Track Cities declaration, committing to ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030. It put us on the same path as London, Manchester, Brighton and over 250 cities across the world.

We can all play our part in our progress towards that goal. Early testing saves lives and prevents transmission of the virus. You can book online for a free confidential test at an NHS sexual health clinic in Blackpool, or visit Revolution at Renaissance to access HIV support. The brilliant team there offers free rapid tests, one to one support, counselling, complementary therapies, peer groups and advice. If you live with HIV or support someone who does, they stand with you every step of the way.

With the team at Renaissance

I want to thank the people and organisations in Blackpool who put their hearts into this work. You raise awareness, you challenge stigma and you make sure everyone feels seen and valued. Your hard work changes lives and I am proud to represent a town that shows this level of care.

National work is moving forward as well. Testing is expanding and treatment is stronger than ever. Prevention tools like PrEP are reaching more people – suppressing the virus and stopping the transmission of HIV.

This year the Prime Minister became the first serving G7 leader to have an HIV test on camera and the government ramped up its public health campaign to end transmissions in England with a £1.5 million fund to increase testing, reduce stigma, tackle health disparities and raise awareness.

Medical advances mean people with HIV can expect a long and healthy life and that we can stop HIV transmissions for good. But HIV continues to be highly stigmatised and misunderstood. People still experience discrimination because of HIV – in work, education, housing and even healthcare.

World AIDS Day exists to shine a light on the real experiences of people living with HIV today, while celebrating the strength, resilience and diversity of the communities most affected. Let’s stand together to create a future where HIV doesn’t stand in the way of anyone’s life.

Visit worldaidsday.org to support the campaign.