World AIDS Day at JKL Therapy Centre
World AIDS Day holds deep meaning for us at JKL Therapy Centre.
Our team has worked in many settings across sexual health, mental health and community care. Some of us have worked in NHS clinics with people living with HIV. Some have supported peer groups. Some have worked with groups who face higher risk. Some have studied global sexual and reproductive health. These roles shaped how we think, how we practise and how we understand care. Our work stays reflective even in quiet periods. We keep learning from clients, students and community voices.
We also want to bring attention to trusted organisations that support people living with HIV and those who work in this area. Their work guides learning and protects the rights and dignity of people across the world.
Progress in the UK and parts of western Europe improved treatment and life outcomes. This progress did not reach everyone. Many communities across the world face gaps in health access. These gaps link to income, race, gender identity, sexuality, disability, migration status and service limits. They also link to stigma. These barriers influence wellbeing, relationships and sexual expression. We see this in our everyday work in therapy, coaching and psychosexual support.
A new HIV diagnosis influences the body, emotions and sense of safety. It influences how people feel within their own sexual lives. It influences how they see trust, disclosure and future connection. Many fear judgement. Many fear rejection. Many carry past trauma linked to stigma. These themes affect intimacy, pleasure and confidence. We meet them often in our rooms and we work with them with care.
WHO marked World AIDS Day 2025 with the theme “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response”. The message is clear. Progress needs strong leadership, shared action and respect for rights. The aim is to end AIDS by 2030.
The world stands at a turning point. Services feel pressure. Many groups face high risk. Even so, progress is possible. People living with HIV show strength and leadership. Community groups run education and support. Research teams share new tools for prevention and treatment. Many therapists bring focus to emotional safety, identity and sexual wellbeing. This is an important part of the wider HIV response.
Figures from WHO show the scale of the challenge.
Around 40.8 million people lived with HIV in 2024.
Around 630000 people died due to HIV in 2024.
Around 1.3 million people acquired HIV in 2024.
Each number reflects a whole life. Each story matters.
At JKL Therapy Centre we support people through psychotherapy, counselling, coaching and psychosexual work. We explore fear, shame, identity and connection. We support partners to talk with honesty. We help people rebuild confidence in dating and sex. We explore U equals U, treatment and safer practice. We also hold space for culture, disability and gender as part of the person’s whole story.
Our therapists also contribute to wider global sexual and reproductive health. Some take part in research projects. Some share learning with community groups. Some work with international students on health and rights. Some support work with people who face strong barriers to care. This helps shape a wider view of sexual wellbeing that goes beyond clinic walls.
Stigma continues to block progress. It shapes how people access services. It shapes how they talk about HIV. It shapes how they see themselves. We aim to reduce stigma through simple and steady steps. We offer a space where people feel safe, respected and heard. We work with the emotional side of health and help people feel whole again.
World AIDS Day reminds us that progress grows from community voices. It grows from steady action. It grows from respect for people living with HIV. We honour these voices. We listen to them. We stand with them.
If you would like support through therapy, coaching or psychosexual work, JKL Therapy Centre can offer a space to think and feel at your own pace.
Trusted resources and organisations
Terrence Higgins Trust
NAM aidsmap
British HIV Association
Positive East
African Health Policy Network
WHO HIV Programme
Global Network of People Living with HIV
National AIDS Trust
LGBT Foundation sexual health resources
HIV Scotland
