HIV support
Our support services for people living with HIV
TVPS offers a wide range of emotional and practical support for people affected by HIV in Berkshire. The empowerment of our clients has always been a core value at the heart of TVPS.
Drop-in centres
Held Tuesday and Thursday at our Slough centre and on Wednesday in Reading. These provide a relaxed environment that gives you a chance to meet other people who are living with HIV and learn from each others experiences. You can make new friends, and come and speak with our support workers about any questions or concerns you may have. Food is provided and free internet access is available for all members
Counselling, peer support and mindfulness
Counselling is held in blocks of 6 weeks and we can arrange a taster session to see how you find it.
Peer support is available on a one to one or group basis. Both programmes are hugely successful and we can help you decide which one will be of most benefit to you.
Mindfulness is held once a month in a group setting. It can help you manage stress, anxiety and depression.
Mentor programme
Our mentor programme pairs up service users with a volunteer who will help you to participate in your community more and help you recognise your skills. This can range from attending classes together, cooking together or just having a chat. In return, the volunteer mentor will learn about living with HIV and become more HIV aware.
Advice and advocacy
We can advise, advocate and help you understand your rights, on a wide range of issues, including immigration, benefits, housing, medical appointments and support with attending appointments.
Afterparty offers advice and support to anyone living in Berkshire who is involved in, or affected by, chemsex.
To find out more about Afterparty click here.
Training and workshops
TVPS hold regular training sessions for service users which include money management, confidence building, disclosure and work skills. We also have links with other agencies to enable us to find the right training course for you.
HIV related training
TVPS offers educational HIV and sexual health training that can be tailored to your needs. Training has been provided to services including Probation and Social Services, but can be tailored to suit any organisation or group.
Healthy living & nutrition
We have a nutritionist visit our centre to run healthy eating and healthy cooking workshops. We also run a weight management group, headed up by the Dietician from The Florey Unit.
Free protection
Free male and female condoms, lube and dams are available in both centres. You will find these in the toilets so no need to be embarrassed about asking. Feel free to help yourself.
Hardship applications
We can help with applications to hardship funds for financial assistance. Please note that there is a criteria which you must meet to be eligible to apply for such funds.