Testing & Support

The Testing and Support Project at Gay Men's Health seeks to  raise awareness among gay and bisexual men of the potential advantages of having an HIV test and to challenge HIV stigma and discrimination and other barriers which prevent gay and bisexual men from having an HIV test.

The project's work includes:

•involving volunteers in peer education, working directly with gay and bisexual men on the commercial gay scene in Edinburgh and Glasgow, and on the internet

•providing training for bar staff and others involved in the gay scene on the nature and effects of HIV stigma and discrimination

•organising health promotion events in gay venues in Edinburgh and Glasgow

•facilitating workshops and training events for volunteers and gay and bisexual men living with HIV

•producing locally based information and resources on HIV testing for gay and bisexual men

The project has also undertaken research into HIV testing decisions and sexual behaviour among gay and bisexual men in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Copies of the research are available from Steve O'Donnell, Testing and Support Project Manager (Lothian) at Gay Men's Health.

Testing and Support Managers:

Lothian: Steve O’Donnell

Greater Glasgow and Clyde: Austen Miall