About us
From basic HIV help to growing Hepatitis C support
Reducing social isolation by meeting people where they are
Our story
Our journey began by providing essential, practical help for adults and parents with very young children diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Many of our service users were drug dependent and gay or bisexual men who regularly experienced prejudice, harassment and discrimination. This resulted in them being vulnerable, and ‘at risk’ due to their health conditions, drug dependence and/or failing health.
Positive Help started as a volunteer-led organisation for 18 months before becoming formally constituted as a registered Scottish charity in 1989.
Since then, our team has been meeting people where they are by helping them practically to live well and reduce social isolation, as they navigate their circumstances, needs and future aspirations.
From 2013, we’ve grown our services to support people with a diagnosis of Hepatitis C. The crossover between HIV and Hepatitis C meant that our flexible support model could continue supporting people who were at risk and living with complex needs.
This model has been highly valued by health and social work professionals who we’ve built trusting relationships with and work collaboratively with as their trusted partners.
Our vision - an optimistic outlook
People of all ages affected by HIV and Hepatitis C (HCV) are able to live meaningful lives free from discrimination so they can move towards a more positive future.
Our mission - living a fuller life
Increase independent living by providing the right practical and emotional support that builds social connection for people affected by HIV and HCV to live with greater dignity and respect in their communities.
“Thanks so much for your caring support. Everyone of you has shown me affection and understanding. You’ve been a blessing to me.”
Service User
Values and Principles
Dignity and Respect
Everyone deserves dignity, courtesy, and respect. We challenge stigma in all its forms.
Compassion and Empathy
We listen with care, respond with understanding, and have a kind and patient approach when offering support.
Privacy, Confidentiality and Privacy
Protecting the privacy of our service users and keeping information confidential is guaranteed.
Empowerment and independence
We celebrate people’s strengths and support them to make their own choices, encouraging them to build confidence and independence.
Inclusion and fairness
Everyone at Positive Help is inclusive, welcoming and we support people from all backgrounds.
Reliability and integrity
We honour our commitments, communicate clearly, and act honestly.
Trauma-informed approach
Our work is delivered through a trauma-informed approach, promoting safety, choice, and control.
Working together
Our board directors, staff, volunteers, partner organisations, and service users work collaboratively to deliver essential people-centred services.
Learning and development
Our team is continuously learning and developing by growing their knowledge and skills to continue providing safe and informed support.
Person-centred support
We provide flexible, practical, and meaningful support to individuals and families based on their needs, preferences, and circumstances.
Ways we help
Ready to find out more about how we help people?
