We are proud to announce that we are the first built environment sector company to be awarded the HIV Confident charter mark by the National AIDS Trust.
HIV Confident is a UK-based initiative created to reduce stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV. By becoming HIV Confident, organisations commit to being aware, inclusive and creating safe spaces for those living with HIV.
This award reflects our commitment to fairness, inclusion, and respect and our enhanced commitment to equality and diversity. It comes as a result of reviewing our policies to ensure inclusivity and rolling out HIV awareness training across our UK business.
HIV is a disability that affects people across all demographics – as many women as men, and increasingly, over 50% of new cases are among heterosexual individuals, where rates are still rising. It’s a reality that challenges outdated perceptions and highlights the urgent need for awareness and understanding. The legacy of past media coverage has shaped attitudes and behaviours in ways we may not realise, often contributing to unintentional stigma and discrimination.
This stigma remains the biggest barrier to achieving the UK’s goal of zero new HIV transmissions by 2030. At Gleeds, we believe stopping new cases is possible – but only if we all play a part. That means recognising that:
- HIV is preventable.
- HIV is treatable.
- People living with HIV can live full, healthy, and normal lives.
By becoming HIV Confident, we are not only supporting our colleagues and communities, but also helping to break stigma and lead change in our industry.
We encourage everyone to learn more, ask questions, and be part of a future where the virus is no longer a barrier to opportunity or wellbeing.
Together, we can make a difference.
Find out more about HIV Confident here.
