December 1st marks World AIDS Day, a global moment for people to unite in the fight against HIV and AIDS, show support for those living with the virus and remember the millions we have lost.
Since 1988, this day has helped raise awareness of HIV, a virus that—while still carrying stigma—can now be managed with medical advances, allowing those diagnosed to live long and healthy lives.
Today, over 105,000 people in the UK and an estimated 39 million globally live with HIV. While medical breakthroughs have transformed treatment, stigma and misinformation persist. At Mildmay, we work with patients who continue to face discrimination and misunderstanding, highlighting the continued need for awareness, compassion, and support.
The red ribbon, worn as a universal symbol of solidarity with people living with HIV, was first introduced by the arts group Visual AIDS in 1991. Chosen for its association with love and life, the red ribbon continues to represent our ongoing commitment to those impacted by HIV and AIDS.
This World AIDS Day, we invite you to wear a red ribbon, support Mildmay through donations, or share information to help break down stigma. Together, we can continue the journey toward an HIV-free future, as the UK works toward the ambitious goal of ending HIV transmissions by 2030. Achieving this will require political will, community engagement, and continued efforts to end stigma and inequality.
Launching Our Winter Fundraising Appeal
Today, we are launching our Winter 2024/25 Fundraising Appeal to raise £50,000 by April 2025 to improve our services and facilities. With £10,000 already raised, we are on our way, but we need your help to reach our target.
How Your Support Will Make a Difference:
£20,000 for Technology Upgrades
Essential for maintaining our patient records, communications, and security systems. Your donations will allow us to update ageing equipment, digitise older records, and upgrade our HR systems.
£15,000 for Chaplaincy and Key Staff Costs
Our chaplaincy team provides vital emotional and spiritual care. We’ve secured £10,000 from a charitable trust but need your help to raise the remaining £15,000 to cover salaries and sustain these crucial services.
£10,000 for Hospital Equipment and Facilities
From clinical tools to therapy equipment and upgraded patient room furnishings, this funding will help us replace worn-out essentials to maintain the highest standards of care.
£5,000 for Social Care
Help us provide personal care items, replacement clothing, and support for patients who arrive with nothing. This funding will reduce distress, aid rehabilitation, and support patients’ long-term independence.
Every donation, large or small, helps us provide the best care possible for those we serve. Your support ensures we continue to offer life-changing services for some of the most vulnerable members of society.
Running a modern hospital is expensive - at least £12,000 per day! Around 90% of our funding comes from NHS contracts, but the remaining costs of maintaining our staff, services, and facilities depend entirely on charitable contributions. 100% of your donations are used to benefit the people we care for.
Together, we can make a difference. Visit our Winter Fundraising Appeal Page to track our progress and learn how you can help us reach our £50,000 target.
Thank you for your continued support, and for standing with Mildmay in our mission to bring hope and healing to those who need it most.
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