Inpatient unit to close at 'vital' HIV service

A specialist service for people living with HIV in Sussex has announced a restructure which will see the closure of its inpatient care unit to focus on community care.

The Sussex Beacon, based in Brighton, has been providing HIV support since being founded 32 years ago in response to the AIDS crisis.

As part of this restructure the facility's 10-bed inpatient unit is to close at the end of January, although the building will remain the base for its Beacon at Home clinical service.

CEO Rachel Brett acknowledged that "people will be saddened by this news" but said a community-based clinical model was "in keeping with current best practice".

"We are embracing this new chapter and model of clinical delivery to consolidate our future delivery," she added.

Chris Ward, Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, wrote on social media: "I know this will be a difficult time for many Sussex Beacon service users and our community."

After speaking to Ms Brett, the MP said he was "hopeful" the new model would safeguard the facility's future.

Dr James Ramsay, chief medical officer at NHS Sussex, added: "Improved treatments and outcomes mean a community-based approach is now the most effective way to support those living with the condition.

"The Sussex Beacon has a vital and valued role in the city and together with their experienced team, we will work with wider health and care services to ensure that people across our communities can continue to reach the services they need, and their family and friends."

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