In a decisive step toward eliminating workplace stigma and discrimination against employees living with HIV, a new guide, HIV in the Workplace: A Guide for Employers. Released ahead of World AIDS Day 2024, this resource empowers businesses to create safer, more inclusive environments for employees affected by HIV.

Despite HIV being a manageable condition with zero risk of transmission when treated, stigma and discrimination persist. Over 106,000 people in the UK live with HIV, and many continue to face prejudice and discrimination. Three-quarters of people living with HIV report experiencing stigma, and one-third have faced discrimination at work​.  

A recent VinciWorks poll revealed a worrying lack of confidence in supporting colleagues with non-visible disabilities, like HIV. Only 25% of respondents feel very confident in supporting a colleague with a non-visible disability, while 18% were unsure or not confident.

Moreover, a significant 47% of respondents doubt that a disabled person would feel confident applying for a job in their organisation.

Developed in collaboration with HIV advocate Mark Mills and informed by anonymous insights from professionals living with HIV, VinciWorks’ new guide highlights the pressing need for workplace awareness and understanding. It offers practical advice to help employers:

• Policy development: Consider how people with non-visible disabilities will feel supported in the workplace and can access support regardless of sharing their condition
• Reasonable adjustments: Offer flexibility for medical appointments and accommodate treatment routines
• Awareness and training: Conduct training to educate teams about HIV, its realities, and how to eliminate stigma.
• Proactive inclusion: Recognise events like World AIDS Day or conduct initiatives to raise awareness and show solidarity.

“The reality is that ignorance and inertia are no longer acceptable excuses,” says Nick Henderson-Mayo, Director of Learning and Content at VinciWorks and a former board member of HIV Scotland. “By taking deliberate steps to create a culture of understanding and inclusion, around non-visible disabilities, employers can make a monumental difference in the lives of their employees.”

Inclusive workplaces benefit everyone. Employees who feel supported are more engaged, motivated, and productive. The guide challenges employers to embed inclusion into their organisational practices by addressing knowledge gaps and building awareness, particularly around non-visible disabilities.

“The reality of HIV is that many employers may never know of a staff member’s diagnosis, but that doesn’t take away from their right to be supported,” continues Henderson-Mayo. “Around 80% of all disabilities are non-visible, so it’s incredibly important for employers to have policies and support mechanisms that can be accessed by employees no matter the health condition or disability.”

*Guide provided by VinciWorks

HIV in the Workplace: A Guide for Employers