We’re Proud to Be Working Towards HIV Confident Status
At The Lawson Practice, we believe every patient deserves to feel safe, respected and fully supported when they access our care. That’s why we’re pleased to share that we have become a founding member of the HIV Confident charter mark programme.
What is HIV Confident?
HIV Confident is a national initiative designed to promote healthcare environments where people living with HIV are treated without stigma or discrimination. Although HIV treatment has advanced significantly — enabling people on effective treatment to live long, healthy lives and not pass the virus on through sex — many individuals still report negative experiences in healthcare settings.
We want to change that.
Our Commitment
Over the coming months, we’ll be working towards full recognition as an HIV Confident organisation. This includes:
- Reviewing staff knowledge and attitudes around HIV
- Updating relevant policies and procedures
- Introducing a short anti‑stigma eLearning package for all staff
- Strengthening reporting processes so patients and staff can safely raise concerns
- Evaluating our progress to ensure meaningful and lasting change
Our goal is clear: to make certain that anyone living with HIV can access our services confidently and without fear of judgement or mistreatment.
Why This Matters
Fear of stigma can discourage people from seeking HIV testing, accessing care, or even engaging with wider healthcare services. By building a more confident, informed and compassionate practice, we hope to play our part in reducing that fear — and in supporting national efforts to reach zero new HIV transmissions by 2030.
Want to Learn More?
To find out more about the HIV Confident programme, visit www.hivconfident.org.uk.
If you have questions about our work towards the charter mark, you can contact us at lawson.practice@nhs.net.