Framework responding to the growing need for guidance on HIV and AIDS in African communities

A framework responding to the growing need for guidance on HIV and AIDS in African communities was launched today by Public Health Minister Melanie Johnson.

The framework, 'HIV and AIDS in African communities: a framework for prevention and care', sets out actions to improve HIV prevention, health promotion, treatment and care services for African communities affected by or at risk of HIV.

Melanie Johnson, said:

"It's so important that those involved with the prevention, detection and treatment of HIV receive the right support and guidance. This framework focuses on the needs of African communities, where cases of HIV have continued to rise.

"Our main goals are to prevent the onward transmission of HIV, reduce the number of people living with undiagnosed HIV and improve the health of Africans living with HIV.

"Research has shown that those from African communities are slower at coming forward for HIV testing than other groups at increased risk of HIV. This is one of the many issues addressed in the framework and we hope this guidance will help all those working with African communities to meet the needs of those infected and affected by HIV."

Developed by the Department of Health, the National AIDS Trust and the African HIV Policy Network, the framework provides best practice guidance for the NHS, local authorities, the voluntary sector and other service providers working with African communities.

Max Sesay, Chief Executive of the African HIV Policy Network said: "The African HIV Policy Network welcomes this announcement - especially in an era when HIV prevention has become ever more important. The African HIV Framework will focus the minds of policy makers on the importance of continuing work with African communities.

"It is the beginning of a planning process that we hope will be sustained in the months and years ahead".

The framework forms part of a package of other measures which address HIV and AIDS in African Communities. Other initiatives include an HIV health promotion campaign for people in African communities, a sexual health promotion toolkit for service providers and the African AIDS Helpline - all funded by the Department of Health.

Also, all women, rather than selective groups, are now offered antenatal HIV testing - a move that has considerably reduced the number of babies born to HIV infected women.

Deborah Jack Chief Executive of the National AIDS Trust, added:

"African communities in this country suffer disproportionately from HIV. The Government, local authorities, the NHS, the voluntary sector and community groups must all work together to end such health inequalities, and improve HIV prevention, treatment and care for African men and women. This Framework is a vital first step to making a difference on the ground."

Innovative examples of local awareness raising by African community groups are listed as best practise guidance in the framework. These include a presence at community events - including festivals, training seminars and workshops, and the use of local theatre groups to communicate messages.

The framework forms part of the Government's programme to modernise and reform the NHS and social services around the needs of patients, carers and service users to tackle inequalities.

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