HIV Matters

Host Michelle welcomes two guests for a special episode exploring the role of General Practice (GP) in modern HIV care. She speaks with Dr. Marlon Morais, a GP and leading champion for HIV awareness in Greater Manchester, and Richard Scarborough, an experienced Public Health Specialist. They discuss the nuances of managing HIV in primary care settings, focusing on how GPs and public health initiatives collaborate to address stigma, promote testing, and ensure effective, integrated care within the community.Episode GuestDr Ghadeer ElrefaeyGhadeer Elrefaey is a dedicated psychiatrist in training at the Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, currently working within the General Adult Psychiatry Community Team. Passionate about global health and community service, she aims to bridge knowledge gaps and improve healthcare access. Her commitment to advocacy and health promotion is evident in her work, including her involvement with CNWL’s Improvement Academy.Richard ScarboroughRichard Scarborough is an Experienced Public Health Specialist with a strong background in government administration and service development. His expertise lies in developing and managing public health strategies, with skills encompassing procurement, change management, and reproductive health. Richard works to ensure that effective services are developed and delivered to meet community health needs.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

David Munns steps in to host this insightful episode of HIV Matters, where he welcomes Dr. Ghadeer Elrefaey, a psychiatrist in training, to delve into the critical intersection of Mental Health and HIV. They explore the unique challenges faced by individuals living with HIV, examining the impact on mental wellbeing and the importance of integrated care.Episode GuestDr Ghadeer ElrefaeyGhadeer Elrefaey is a dedicated psychiatrist in training at the Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, currently working within the General Adult Psychiatry Community Team. Passionate about global health and community service, she aims to bridge knowledge gaps and improve healthcare access. Her commitment to advocacy and health promotion is evident in her work, including her involvement with CNWL’s Improvement Academy.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters explores "Psychological Standards" and the evolving landscape of HIV knowledge. Michelle welcomes Helena King, Senior Lecturer in Management and Health at the Open University, to discuss the latest advancements in HIV understanding and policy.Episode GuestDr Helena KingHelena is a health sociologist and senior lecturer focusing on the link between health and social environments. Her work explores wellbeing, public health, health stigma, and the role of charities in complex care, alongside contributing to healthcare policy. She teaches within the Department of Public Leadership and Social Enterprise.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters puts the spotlight on the "Terrence Higgins Trust" in this informative episode. Michelle is joined by returning guest host Winnie and special guest Richard Angell to discuss the vital work of this renowned organisation in supporting people affected by HIV.Episode GuestRichard Angell OBERichard is Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust, joining in March 2023. Formerly Campaigns Director and interim Head of Policy & Public Affairs, he led the charity's 40th-anniversary commemorations and secured over £67m in government funding for opt-out HIV testing in A&E. He also spearheaded successful campaigns against discriminatory bans affecting people with HIV in the military, driving, and blood donation. A University of Birmingham graduate, Richard previously directed the think tank Progress and advised leaders across various sectors.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/Terrence Higgins Trusthttps://www.tht.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters tackles the important topic of "HIV and Aging." Michelle welcomes Anne Hughes from George House Trust to discuss the unique challenges and considerations faced by older adults living with HIV. Tune in for insights on aging gracefully, managing long-term health, and accessing specialised support services.Episode GuestAnna HughesAnna coordinates the Ageing Well Programme at George House Trust, supporting over-50s living with HIV in Greater Manchester and Liverpool. The programme offers social activities, skills training, and volunteering opportunities, both at George House Trust and in the community. Anna also delivers HIV awareness training to care homes and other organisations supporting older people. She oversees all aspects of this vital project.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/George House Trusthttps://ght.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters presents "Living Unashamedly with HIV." Michelle sits down with Matthew Hodgson, former CEO of Gay Men Fighting AIDS and prominent HIV activist, to discuss his journey of living openly with HIV. From his leadership roles to his unwavering advocacy, Matthew shares his insights on overcoming stigma and embracing life authentically.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters explores the "Silent Voices" within the HIV community in this poignant episode. Michelle sits down with Lynda Shentall to discuss the experiences of those whose stories often go unheard. Tune in for a conversation that sheds light on the hidden challenges and triumphs faced by individuals living with HIV.Episode GuestLynda Shentall is a social worker and Service and Development Manager for the HIV charity George House Trust in Manchester. With 30 years' experience in social care, she is a trustee for Independent Choices, supporting women experiencing domestic abuse. Lynda's PhD explored the intersection of domestic abuse and HIV in women. She lectures in Social Work at the University of Salford.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

For our landmark 50th episode, we've got a special treat! We welcome back our friend of the podcast, Jaime Garcia-Iglesias, to discuss DoxyPEP. Plus, we're sharing the initial conversations from our World AIDS Day roundtable, recorded on November 29th, 2024. Join Jaime and chair Chase Ledin as they explore the emergence of DoxyPEP in UK sexual healthcare, and discuss the hopes and concerns surrounding its implementation.Episode GuestJaime Garcia-IglesiasJaime is a Mildred Baxter Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Centre for Biomedicine, Self and Society at The University of Edinburgh. Jamie is working on exploring how sexual fantasies and desires can be harnessed for HIV prevention by engaging with a range of stakeholders.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters takes listeners to Sierra Leone in this compelling episode. Michelle welcomes Prof Simon Taylor-Robinson and Álvaro del Valle Palacios to discuss the vital work of MINI's Village Foundation. They'll explore the challenges of HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B in Sierra Leone and how MVF is providing free healthcare and education to combat these diseases and reduce stigma.Episode GuestsProf Simon Taylor-RobinsonSimon is a hepatology professor at Imperial College London and former Dean of its School of Medicine, is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and the West African College of Physicians. With extensive HBV project experience in West Africa, he holds an honorary Professorship at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research.Álvaro del Valle PalaciosÁlvaro is a lawyer with a LLB from Complutense University of Madrid and a PGCert in Human Rights Law from SOAS, is completing a MA in Corporate Communications. He serves as an executive member and Director for Media and Communications for MVF.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters puts the spotlight on "Putting People First" in this insightful episode. Michelle welcomes Darren Knight from George House Trust to discuss their crucial work in providing support and advocacy for people living with HIV.Episode GuestDarren KnightDarren Knight is Chief Executive of George House Trust, a charity supporting people with HIV. With 20 years in the sector, he focuses on inclusion, capacity building and empowering those with lived experience. He is passionate about creating a world where HIV holds no one back.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters explores the power of personal narratives in "Our Stories Told By Us." Join Michelle, extra special guest host Winnie, and Oonagh O'Brien for a discussion on the impact of sharing lived experiences and the diverse journeys within the HIV community.Episode GuestOonagh O'BrienOonagh is a Lecturer in Global Health and Development at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, Scotland. Her work focuses on gender, sexual health, and the prevention of female genital mutilation (FGM). Oonagh has a long-standing commitment to human rights, especially the women's movement and the rights of people living with HIV. She brings a wealth of international experience and a passion for social justice to her teaching and research.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters dives into the world of dating apps and their impact on the HIV community. Michelle sits down with Jaime to explore how these platforms are changing the landscape of dating, relationships, and stigma for people living with HIV.Episode GuestJaime Garcia-IglesiasJaime is a Midred Baxter Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Centre for Biomedicine, Self and Society at The University of Edinburgh. Jamie is working on exploring how sexual fantasies and desires can be harnessed for HIV prevention by engaging with a range of stakeholders.Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters continues with a powerful episode featuring returning guest Stephen Hart. Michelle explores Stephen's incredible life story, as told through his acclaimed one-man show "Shadowed Dreamer.".Episode GuestStephen Hart is well known for the critically acclaimed off-broadway show "Shadowed Dreamer", discussing life after becoming a man living with HIV. When finishing this show, Stephen knew there was something more he could do, so decided to start uploading videos to YouTube under the title "Hart Talks".Additional Information and Links CW Plushttps://www.cwplus.org.uk/HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

HIV Matters returns for its fifth series! In "New Chapter," Michelle catches up with producer Dan and friend of the show David Munns to discuss the evolving landscape of HIV and what they have in store for listeners this season.Episode GuestsProducer Dan (Heggie)Dan is a highly experienced and self-motivated Lecturer at the University of East Anglia (UEA) with a passion for teaching and a strong clinical background. He is a confident and engaging communicator with a proven track record of delivering high-quality education and training.David MunnsDavid Munns is a Clinical Nurse Specialist in London, providing vital mental health support to people living with HIV. He helps patients manage the challenges of aging with HIV, including depression, PTSD, and addiction.Additional Information and Links HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

In this episode, Michelle catches up with friend of the podcast Katie Warburton on updates to her research and work within children living with HIV.Episode GuestKatie Warburton is a lecturer at The University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) and is active member of CHIVA’s executive committee. Additional Information and Links For more information on naming of HIV and information on supporting children living with HIVhttps://www.chiva.org.uk/ourworkprof/tr/National HIV Nurse Association (NHIVNA) www.nhivna.org.HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

In this episode, Michelle chats with Dr Philip Ambulai and Rebecca Kanu about Mini's Village Foundation.Subject Description - Mini's Village Foundation (MVF)By 2025, MVF aims to raise awareness and provide screening for HIV and HBV, enabling early treatment interventions and combating the stigma associated with these conditions in Sierra Leone. MVF's mission is to support sexual disease awareness, immunisation, and treatment initiatives, particularly for young people aged 14-50 years. Committed to delivering high standards of safety and compassionate care, MVF collaborates with patients, families, medical professionals, and communities. Their core values include respect, integrity, and teamwork, ensuring patient needs are at the heart of their sustainable services.Episode Guest - Dr Philip AmbulaiDr. Philip Lahai Ambulai is the CEO and Director of a leading micro medical diagnostic company and the Founder and Director of Mini's Village Foundation (MVF), a UK-registered not-for-profit organization (registration number 1205457). With over 15 years of clinical and research expertise, Dr. Ambulai is dedicated to advancing healthcare solutions. MVF, under his leadership, provides free healthcare services to individuals living with HIV/AIDS, HBV, and STDs in Sierra Leone, reflecting his commitment to improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.Episode Guest - Miss Rebecca KanuRebecca Kanu is the Co-Founder of MVF and currently works as a Senior Clinical Research Coordinator. Named in honor of Rebecca's mother, Mini, who contracted HIV through a needle stick injury while serving as a nurse, MVF embodies a deep commitment to healthcare and community support. Rebecca plays a pivotal role in advancing MVF’s mission to combat the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and HBV in Sierra Leone. Mini's Village Foundation LinksWebsite - https://www.minisvillagefoundation.orgEmail - info@minisvillagefoundation.orgContact Number - +44 (0) 7852 148177Additional Information and Links National HIV Nurse Association (NHIVNA) www.nhivna.org.HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

In this episode, Michelle chats with Dr Orla McQuillan.Episode Guest - Dr Orla McQuillanDr. Orla McQuillan is a Consultant Physician specialising in Genitourinary Medicine, HIV, and Sexual Health at the Withington and Hathersage Centre. She serves as the Fast Track Clinical Lead for Manchester and the site lead for HIV testing. She advocates for the widespread availability of PrEP medication and focuses on raising awareness, education, and enhancing testing and outreach to identify undiagnosed HIV cases in Greater Manchester.Additional Information and Links National HIV Nurse Association (NHIVNA) www.nhivna.org.HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

In this episode, Michelle chats with the Chair of NHIVNA and HIV Nurse of the Year Linda Panton.Episode Guest - Linda PantonLinda Panton, a seasoned clinical nurse specialist, leads HIV care at Edinburgh's Infectious Diseases Unit. With 30 years in the field, she emphasizes compassionate, comprehensive care. Linda was honored as HIV Nurse of the Year in 2022 and chairs the National HIV Nurses Association (NHIVNA) Executive. She actively contributes to national initiatives and conferences, focusing on advancing HIV nursing practices.Additional Information and Links National HIV Nurse Association (NHIVNA) www.nhivna.org.HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

In this episode, Michelle chats with Jen Kendrick around her leadership in HIV care simulated learning.Episode Guest - Jen KendrickJen Kendrick is the lead HIV clinical specialist nurse at The Hathersage Centre in Manchester, with 13 years of experience in the field. She began as a band 5 rotational nurse and has since advanced to her current role. Drawn to HIV care by its challenges, Jen finds it profoundly rewarding. She uses her expertise to support patients' health and social care needs, offering ongoing psychological support. Jen also chairs the north west HIV nursing alliance and looks forward to contributing to the NHIVNA executive committee, aiming to enhance support for people living with HIV nationally.Additional Information and Links National HIV Nurse Association (NHIVNA) www.nhivna.org.HIV Matters Bookstorehttps://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm

Join Michelle as she chats with Graeme Lavery about living with HIV and Autism. Episode GuestsGraeme LaveryGraeme Lavery, a Liverpool-based textile artist, draws inspiration from pop culture and LGBT history. Returning to Liverpool in 2014, Graeme joined Sahir House, becoming a public speaker but initially keeping his HIV status private due to stigma. In 2016, he embraced visibility at Liverpool Pride, dressing as "Cupid Stunt" and leading Sahir House. Graeme finds empowerment in textile art, exploring identity and resilience. He connects his craft to the legacy of AIDS, honoring LGBT communities and celebrating life and love.Additional Information and Links HIV Matters Bookstore https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/HIVMattersHow to contact the show Dr Michelle Croston @ hello@hivmatterspodcast.co.ukhttps://hiv-matters.captivate.fm