If you live with HIV in the UK, you can do any job. Nothing is off-limits. But for a small number of roles, you will need to tell your employer about your HIV status. This includes becoming a dentist, surgeon, midwife, pilot, or member of the armed forces.
For any other job in the UK, the decision to tell an employer that you’re living with HIV is yours alone. It is important to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. You may be worried about discrimination and stigma, but telling your employer may mean you get extra support. Time off for medical appointments, for example.
The Equality Act protects people with HIV from discrimination in the workplace. Your employer must keep your status confidential and make adjustments to support you.
Campaigns for fairer working rights
Some careers haven’t always been open to those living with HIV. Until recently it was more difficult to become a pilot or join the armed forces.
In June 2022, new guidance from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) was published for pilots living with HIV to support them with their careers.
The guidance confirms that with a timely diagnosis of HIV and antiretroviral therapy, there is a low risk of a pilot suffering conditions that could affect their ability to safely fly aircraft. Find out more here.
Also in June 2022, the UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that all barriers had been removed for people living with HIV to join and have a successful career in the military.This means there is no longer a ban on people living with HIV from joining the British Armed Forces. Find out more here.
Spotlight on: Work
The Work edition of our Spotlight video series focuses on various people working across the UK in different professions, from healthcare to sports, from the arts to hospitality and everything in between.
Through these videos, learn how and why people with HIV are choosing to tell their employer about their HIV, or why not.
