HIV diagnoses among the 50+ have almost doubled in the last decade and diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections among those 65 and older have increased by 38%. Older people now represent one in three of all people living with HIV, but the social care and healthcare systems aren’t ready for this new and fast-growing ageing generation.  Moreover, despite many advancements in HIV treatment and prevention, stigma and discrimination remains a critical challenge.

As the new report,  Uncharted Territory [PDF] concluded, “our health and social care systems are simply not ready for this and we could see a timebomb in the years to come. We must ensure our care homes and our communities are ready to support people with HIV to live well in later life, while facing the uncertainty of what lies ahead.”

To help address this challenge, the Learning Centre at Terrence Higgins Trust Scotland is offering specialised, accredited training.  All training courses will help workers to support people with HIV more effectively, recognise and mitigate risks, challenge stigma & discrimination, understand the legislation on HIV disclosure and confidentiality, and respond to the sexual health needs of residents, clients or patients.

Please see below for some examples of training currently on offer. With any questions, please contact  [email protected] or call 0141 332 3838. You can join our mailing list if you wish to be kept up-to-date with opportunities as they emerge.

To see all our courses on offer or for more information please see http://www.tht.org.uk/our-charity/Our-work/Scotland/Learning-Centre-Scotland

 

Examples of courses currently on offer:

HIV Awareness Training – CPD certified

This new course will help you learn how to prevent HIV transmissions, support people living with or at risk for HIV, manage risks, challenge stigma and increase your confidence in speaking to others about the issues.

Friday 28 July 10am-4pm

*This course runs bi-monthly – please inquire for other dates
Cost: £30 – £72 (includes VAT)

“I found the training day such a benefit. The information the trainer provided, in the manner she did, helped settle my mind and has allowed me address my own issues/prejudices with a clearer, more balanced mindset.” (Participant attending HIV Awareness)

“Interesting, well paced information by evidently knowledgeable instructor who knew exactly how to communicate with the group. The trainer was fantastic. Very good at making a comfortable environment to discuss the topics.” (Participant attending HIV Awareness)

 

SQA Accredited Courses

We are excited to be the first to offer two new accredited courses in HIV and Sexual Health Training. Both courses have been accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and are Professional Development Awards (PDAs) at SCQF level 7.

 

Understanding HIV & AIDS

The PDA in HIV is ideal for anyone who works in care homes, healthcare, social care, sexual health, HIV or early childcare. The course is also relevant to anyone who supports at-risk populations or high prevalence communities.   It is comprised of two units:

Unit one: HIV - An Introduction (Tuesday 11 July)

Unit two: HIV – Treatment & Lifestyle Management (Tuesday 1 August)

Cost £187.50 - £195 per unit (includes VAT, SQA fees and a light lunch)

‘I learned lots and this will definitely improve my support for individuals living with HIV’ (Participant attending Understanding HIV & AIDS)

 

Delivering Sexual Health Training

The PDA in Sexual Health Training is ideal for anyone who delivers Sexual Health Training or would like teach or deliver training in sexual health. It is comprised of two units:

Unit 1:  Sexual Health Training – An Introduction (Thursday 20 July)

Unit 2: Sexual Health Training – Experiential Learning (Thursday 17 August)

Cost £187.50 - £195 per unit (includes VAT, SQA fees and a light lunch)

“The trainer was excellent – very knowledgeable, supportive, approachable and encouraging.” (Participant attending Sexual Health Training)