World Aids Day: London Politicians Serve-Up Meals for HIV/Aids Victims

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World Aids Day: London Politicians Serve-Up Meals for HIV/Aids Victims

Survey finds one in seven young people would not stay friends with HIV victim

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■ Jean Lambert MEP (left) and Emily Thornberry MP lead a hand at The Food Chain preparing meals for those suffering from HIV/Aids.

LONDON, November 28, 2007 – As World Aids Day approaches, new research has found that one in seven young people in the UK would not be willing to remain friends with someone diagnosed with HIV.

The shock figure is revealed in an Ipsos Mori poll commissioned by the British Red Cross.

To help raise awareness and overcome the stigma surrounding the disease, Jean Lambert, one of the MEPs for London, and Emily Thornberry, MP for Islington South & Finsbury, joined a group of cross-party London politicians at the weekend to prepare meals for housebound HIV sufferers.

“Being diagnosed with a potentially terminal illness is devastating and on top of that many people face being stigmatized because of the lack of understanding surrounding HIV and Aids,” Ms. Lambert said after volunteering in Highbury with The Food Chain..

“With rising numbers of new diagnoses year-on-year there should be further investment in education to reduce infection rates and increase comprehension of the disease.

“As well as the right medication, good nutrition is vital for those with weakened immune systems,” she pointed out.

“The Food Chain provides a crucial service for housebound HIV and Aids sufferers, helping to improve their quality of life. New volunteers are always welcome.”

Other politicians helping out on Sunday included Sarah Ludford MEP with Greater London Authority members Jennette Arnold and John Biggs.

The Food Chain began serving meals on Christmas Day 1988. It continues to provide meals and grocery boxes to those living with HIV. The Food Chain exists to ensure that those living with HIV in the UK have access to good nutrition to help them regain their health and stay well.

On Christmas Day in 1988, the founder members of TFC delivered their first meals to service users who were relatives and friends. Meals were cooked in the Metropolitan Community Church in Central London.

Today, The Food Chain operates across London – and have plans to expand to other areas of the country.

Among the many benefactors are the Elton John AIDS Foundation, George Michael and The Big Lottery.

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