HIV support group helping women live with virus

Leaders of a group set up to support women living with HIV have called on more people to undergo testing for the condition.

Positive Women South West was founded in Bristol in 2024, and helps about 50 women between the ages of 20 to 70.

It offers a variety of activities including yoga, crafts and confidence-building workshops.

Sarah, not her real name, contracted the virus from her ex-husband and described the group as a "lifeline", adding: "Just being married doesn't mean you're particularly safe."

After contracting the disease in 2009, Sarah was worried about having another child with her ex-partner, but thanks to medication her baby did not contract the illness.

She has urged more women to speak openly about their diagnosis with partners, friends, and family, and believes that expanding access to testing could "save a lot of lives".

The group's founder, Bonnie Holt, has worked in the HIV sector for more than 30 years - spurred on by the death of some close friends.

She hopes to tackle the "stigma" and discrimination around the disease and highlight those with the condition can still lead healthy and normal lives.

"I know how much this group means to the women," Ms Holts added.

In the 12 months since the group was founded, Ms Holt has supported dozens of women living with the virus.

She said people "don't realise" that HIV is still a serious condition and continues to encourage all she meets to get tested if they are sexually active and not using condoms.

Anyone wanting to attend a session can contact Positive Women South West and a confidential location will be disclosed once their spot is secured.

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