We are delighted and proud to partner with Waverley Care, Scotland's HIV and Hepatitis C charity, as part of our 2019/2020 Corporate Social Responsibility. This is the first charity partnership for Criterion and first in several years for Waverley Care, who celebrate their 30th anniversary this year.
Waverley Care’s work is focused on prevention, education, testing, and support. Throughout Scotland, they are reducing new HIV and Hepatitis C infections, getting people diagnosed and supporting those affected in whatever ways they need. Through this work, they are also challenging HIV and Hepatitis C related stigma, tackling health inequalities and promoting good sexual health.
We launched the partnership at a thought-provoking talk delivered by Matt Middler, Waverley Care Corporate Relationships Manager, titled “HIV – Going out of fashion”, at our Edinburgh Office. The session covered many interesting topics, from how HIV and AIDS were communicated during the 1980s epidemic to challenging the many misconceptions and stigma still associated with the virus and in today’s society. The primary objective of the session was to educate, inform and encourage everyone to get tested to help reduce new HIV and Hepatitis C infections.
Due to continuing pressure on statutory funding, the charity is having to increasingly turn to the public to raise the funds needed to provide its support and prevention services. Criterion will spend another day helping maintain the Waverley Care’s residential unit grounds, which is set in 2.5 acres of land at Milestone House, as well as volunteering at charity events, supporting bucket collections and taking part in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk.
To find out more about Waverley Care, the amazing work they do and how to get involved, please visit www.waverleycare.org
