World AIDS Day 2025 | Stigma is still hurting people living with HIV

By Ian Howley | CEO, LGBT HERO

HIV has changed. Treatment works. PrEP works. U=U saves lives. And for many in our community, HIV feels like a problem of the past. 

But for people living with HIV, the inequalities created by HIV stigma are very much present, and they run deep. 

HIV stigma isn’t just a rude comment or a bad date. It shapes people’s mental health. It fuels alcohol and drug use for those trying to cope. It creates isolation, loneliness, and the fear of not being accepted. It forces people to shrink themselves in a world that should let them live loudly. 

These are the inequalities so many don’t see, or choose not to think about, because HIV feels less urgent now. But stigma doesn’t disappear just because PrEP is widely available. And progress means nothing if people living with HIV are still being left behind. 

This is why LGBT HERO exists. 

We don’t just challenge HIV stigma. We support the people carrying its weight, every single day. 

We’re here with:

• Mental health and wellbeing information people can trust 

Because people living with HIV deserve more than awareness. They deserve equality, safety, dignity, and the chance to live happier, healthier lives. 

This World AIDS Day, we’re asking our community to step up. To see the inequalities that still exist. To do better, be better, and challenge ignorance wherever it shows up.

And to stand with people living with HIV, not just on World AIDS Day, but every day. 

If you believe in a future where no one is left behind, support LGBT HERO today. Let’s end the stigma. Let’s end the inequalities. Let’s build a community where everyone thrives. 

By donating to LGBT HERO this World AIDS Day, you’ll be helping to power our ground-breaking campaigns, our sexual health information services, and providing support for people living with HIV with mental health and wellbeing advice, signposting and peer support groups. 

DONATE TODAY