HARDSHIP SUPPORT

We know that many children, young adults and families living with HIV face increased hardship. 

Our hardship support service provides practical help for those with critical needs.

Who can apply?

To be eligible, you or those you are referring must be:

• a family with a child living with HIV
• a young adult who has grown up with HIV
• a pregnant or new mother living with HIV (although, support for these mothers will be focused on infant needs)

Applicants will need to be facing a crisis or emergency, with no access to support and insufficient resources to meet their needs. Or, they will be experiencing poverty or destitution.

We’ll also accept applications from students who need support moving into independent accommodation where their family circumstances fit into the above categories, or they are estranged from family support.

What kind of support is available?

Examples of areas where applicants could receive help:

• Food deliveries or vouchers
• Household essentials
• Digital equipment for education
• Emergency housing
• Travel to appointments
• Formula milk for infants of mothers living with HIV*

Formula milk

*In 2025, the Government committed to funding formula milk for infants of mothers living with HIV across England to prevent vertical transmission of HIV. The Department for Health and Social Care are currently formalising the plans to make that available for mothers. In the meantime, healthcare professionals can refer parents to Chiva but please note that at this time, formula milk provision comes from our charity funds and referrals should only be for those identified as experiencing economic difficulties to ensure this limited budget reaches those most in need. Any referrals for formula milk for people living with HIV in London should be made to The Food Chain.

How to apply

Fill in the referral form below.

If you have a query or would like to discuss any referrals with us, please call Lineo Chinyama (07871730541) or Amanda Ely (07484 830329).