A new community-based counselling hub for people living with HIV was opened on June 29 by Lord Mayor of Dublin James Geoghan.
Speaking at the launch, the Lord Mayor said “I am delighted to open HIV Ireland’s new community counselling hub. This garden will serve as a tranquil space for reflection and provide people with improved access to counselling and related services. Such supports, whether counselling or one-to one peer support, help people meet the challenges they experience in life, including the impact of societal stigma regarding HIV.”
Commenting on the burden of societal stigma relating to HIV, the Lord Mayor remarked “the best support we can provide will be when, as a society, we end HIV-related stigma once and for all.”
The counselling hub constitutes a fully furnished 4m x 4m self-contained cabin and a newly landscaped garden area covering more than ninety square metres. Work to level and landscape the garden space was generously funded by the Department of Health following an announcement to coincide with last year’s Dublin Pride Festival. Additional funding to erect and furnish the cabin was provided by the Hospital Saturday Fund and National Lottery.
Speaking at the launch event, Chair of HIV Ireland Mr Steve Lynam said “despite the advances in medical treatment which mean people living with HIV can enjoy long and healthy lives, many people still avoid seeking mental health and other psychosocial supports.”
“HIV Ireland has a long tradition of providing these kinds of supports, whether through counselling, peer support, community outreach, or advocacy. This hub will enhance our ability to offer these kinds of supports on an ongoing basis and we are grateful for the funding we have received to realise this important facility,” he added.
The launch of the counselling hub coincides with HIV Ireland’s Annual Pride Breakfast which took place at its headquarters on Dublin’s Eccles St.