Supporting the health and wellbeing of children and young adults living with HIV

Government’s new robust plan is a welcome commitment to ensure no one is left behind in HIV prevention, treatment and care

The Government’s new HIV Action Plan, launched today [Monday 1 December 2025] on World AIDS Day, is a welcome commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in the efforts to end HIV transmissions, whilst recognising what support some people already living with HIV may need to engage with treatment and care.

The ambitious plan, unveiled by Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting, aims to tackle stigma and end transmissions in England by 2030 and is backed by £170 million.

At the heart of the plan is a first of its kind national programme which will find and support people who are not accessing lifesaving HIV treatment and bring them back into care.   

Around 5,000 people are no longer in care, with reasons including mental health issues, addiction, poverty or fear of judgement. This targeted support is particularly crucial for groups who are more likely to face problems including racism, stigma, poverty and housing issues that can make their lives more difficult.  

Young people who are growing up living with HIV are required to access HIV care for the whole of their lives and can be particularly at risk of falling out of care.

Dr Amanda Williams, Paediatrician and Chair of Chiva said:

“Children and young people living with perinatally acquired HIV have to attend healthcare appointments and take medication their whole life, for what is still a highly stigmatised health condition. For many, missing appointments becomes more common in adolescence, and during the transition from paediatric to adult care.  That’s why we’re pleased to see plans to tackle HIV stigma and re-engage people back into care.”

The plan will also fund formula milk and sterilising equipment for the infants of women living with HIV, reducing the risk of vertical transmission.  

Commenting on this news, Dr Williams said, “We welcome the Government’s decision to fund formula milk for all babies born to mothers living with HIV, who need it as part of HIV prevention measures during pregnancy through to post-birth – something that Chiva, The Food Chain and NAT have been calling for. Funding formula milk ensures women can follow medical guidance and are empowered to make informed choices about how to safely feed their babies without financial barriers.”

The Action Plan is also continuing funding for testing in A&E in areas with high prevalence of HIV in England, meaning that people who have a routine blood test at A&E will automatically be tested for HIV – unless they choose not to. This will pick up infections earlier, when treatment is most effective.  

Hospital staff working in NHS Trusts who have the A&E opt-out testing programme will also receive anti-stigma training, so patients can access care without fear of being judged for their HIV status. 

A groundbreaking £5 million trial, will see home HIV testing kits ordered at the touch of a button through the NHS App.   

The trial will allow people to order home HIV tests seamlessly, receive results securely, and contact their GP or sexual health clinics – all from their phone. 

The new digital service will offer a discreet route for those anxious about their sexual health to get tested without visiting a clinic. 

Dr Williams continued, “We welcome the Government’s plan to introduce at-home HIV testing through the NHS App. This innovation will give people greater autonomy and privacy, helping those who face barriers to testing in clinics or community settings. It is especially important for young people, who may experience stigma or practical challenges that prevent them from getting tested.

“Expanding access in this way will support earlier diagnosis, ensuring individuals can start effective treatment promptly. With timely care, people living with HIV can expect to live long, healthy lives and, with successful treatment, cannot pass the virus on to sexual partners. This is a significant step forward in making HIV testing easier, more accessible, and more equitable for everyone.”

Amanda Ely, Chiva CEO said,

“We are extremely pleased to see the Government not only recognising the ongoing need to fund programmes to increase opportunities to test for HIV, but also recognising that supporting people to be able to engage with their HIV treatment and care is critical.

“The new plan will ensure that no infant is at risk of acquiring HIV because of lack of access to infant formula milk and this is another crucial aspect of the UK’s HIV response. This demonstrates a commitment to inclusion and valuing person-centred care, all of which Chiva are delighted to see. We look forward to continuing to work with the Government to help make this action plan a success.”