It is unfortunately still the case that the level of services for people with HIV will vary according to where you live. Some local authorities will be providing a much better level of service than others. It is common for people to move in order to take full advantage of the services in a particular area – due to the concentration of services in London many move here from elsewhere in the country. However there are considerable variations in both medical and social care even across London.

Furthermore, funding and resources do not always keep abreast with demand for services, so some services may therefore be difficult to get. It is therefore important to discuss your needs with whichever HIV service you are using.

Building a support network

It could be extremely useful to find out about what services are available and who provides them whilst you are HIV–positive and well or asymptomatic. Even if you don't think you need anything, familiarising yourself with local and health authority services, hospital clinics, voluntary AIDS service organisations, and GP surgeries (including whether your GP is a fund–holder) whilst you are well could cut down on the worry or stress of trying to get the help you need if you become unwell.

Making yourself known to local social services, or telephoning a voluntary AIDS service organisation to find out more about what services they provide can mean building up a list of named professionals, volunteers and telephone numbers before you need them, for when you need them.

Some people also find that using social care services whilst they are well is a good way of meeting other people with HIV. Sometimes such friendships can be an important form of peer support.