BLACKPOOL

On the eve of World AIDS Day in 2023, Blackpool Council proudly joined the global Fast-Track Cities network and their goal to eradicate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

In 2023, Blackpool’s HIV diagnosis rate was 4.31 per 1,000 residents, highlighting the need for continued focus on HIV care.

As a high-prevalence area for HIV, we recognise the importance of early detection. The sooner people are diagnosed, the better their health outcomes.

Key priorities in the Blackpool Sexual Health Strategy and Action Plan 2023-2026 include: increasing testing, expanding access to prevention (like PrEP), and ensuring timely treatment for those diagnosed.

Blackpool’s Commitment to the Fast-Track Cities Initiative

Since becoming a Fast-Track City, Blackpool has established a dedicated working group to drive improvements in line with the city’s Sexual Health Strategy, with goals including:

• Working with partners to ensure 95% of people living with HIV know their status
• Increasing the percentage of diagnosed individuals on effective treatment
• Supporting long-term medication adherence to reduce transmission risks
• Combating stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV
• Ending HIV epidemics in cities by 2030
• Continued developments in Blackpool’s HIV care

Recent developments

Blackpool Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust is committed to provide a stigma-free environment for staff and patients living with HIV. As a founding member of the HIV Confident Charter, the Trust is leading the way in supporting HIV-positive individuals.

The HIV Confident initiative will ensure that patients, current and prospective staff living with HIV can access services or work within the Trust without fear of discrimination.

From June 2025, Blackpool Council will also be applying for HIV Confident Status, which, if successful, will include incorporating this training into mandatory inductions for their public-facing services.

Additionally, Blackpool Teaching Hospitals’ Emergency Department, including the Same Day Emergency Clinic, is currently testing 80% of patients for HIV, with routine screenings now extended to include Hepatitis B and C.

This proactive approach has led to the identification of individuals living with HIV and Hepatitis who were previously unaware of their condition, helping connect them to vital treatment and support.

Blackpool’s commitment to improving the lives of those living with HIV is clear, and through collaboration and innovation, the city is on track to achieve its goal of ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030.

Councillor Jo Farrell, Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing said:

“By becoming part of the Fast-Track Cities programme, Blackpool is taking a strong stand in the global effort to end the HIV epidemic through collaboration, effective treatment, and reducing stigma.

“It is a virus that can affect anyone. Our goal is to make HIV testing as routine as any other health check, ensuring everyone has access to life-saving treatment.”