HIV in Scotland

Scotland is on track to be one of the first countries in the world to achieve zero HIV transmissions, and Waverley Care will play an essential role in getting us there.

In November 2022, Public Health Scotland published new data showing a decrease in both the number of first-time HIV diagnoses and in the proportion of all reported HIV diagnoses since 2018, in addition to evidence that PrEP has been highly effective in reducing the number of HIV transmissions among men who have sex with men.

Following this, on World AIDS Day, the Scottish Government responded to a proposal written by several third-sector organisations, including Waverley Care, with their report Ending HIV Transmission in Scotland by 2030. The report outlines the key steps to reaching zero new HIV transmissions by 2030, including plans for an e-PrEP pilot scheme, a public awareness campaign, and the formation of an implementation group. 

However, despite these real steps forward, a positive HIV diagnosis still has the power to knock people off their feet and impact every part of their lives.

While HIV is treatable, people living with HIV still carry the burden of decades of discrimination and misinformation about HIV. The stigma and shame surrounding HIV holds people back and makes it different to other life-long conditions. Stigma and the fear of an HIV diagnosis still prevents many people at risk from  getting a test and knowing their status. 

That's why, as an organisation, we are driven to create lasting change for everyone in Scotland living with or at risk of HIV or hepatitis C.