Positive East – East London’s largest HIV and sexual health charity

Positive East is East London’s largest HIV and sexual health charity. Established in 2005 through the merger of two long-standing community organisations (The Globe Centre and the London East AIDS Network), they have been at the forefront of HIV care and prevention for over 30 years. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for people living with or affected by HIV and to work toward a future with zero new transmissions and zero stigma.

The organisation is for individuals living with or affected by HIV, as well as those seeking information about sexual health and testing. While their support services primarily focus on residents of East London (including Tower Hamlets, Hackney, and Newham), their HIV and STI testing services are open to anyone. They provide a safe, inclusive environment that specifically welcomes the LGBTQ+ community, women, and ethnic minority groups, including people of Black African and Caribbean heritage.

Positive East offers a holistic range of services designed to support both physical and mental wellbeing. These include one-to-one counselling, peer support groups, and specialist advice on welfare benefits and housing. They run dedicated groups such as “Rainbow Men” (for gay and bisexual men living with HIV) and “Women4Women” (for women living with HIV). Their Stepney-based centre also features an onsite gym, a computer lab, and regular health workshops ranging from mindfulness to acupuncture.

By combining clinical testing with community-led emotional support, Positive East empowers individuals to manage their health with confidence. They are active advocates for the “U=U” (Undetectable = Untransmittable) message, working tirelessly to challenge the myths and stigma that still surround HIV today.

UK Charity Number: 1001582

Categories

• Local LGBTQ+ Charities

Regions

• Greater London

Location