World AIDS Day is a chance each year for friends, families and others affected by HIV to stand in unity, reflection, and determination, confronting stigma and remembering those we have lost. It’s also a moment to appreciate how far we’ve come thanks to extraordinary medical breakthroughs, with fewer diagnoses — a testament to community activism, bravery and scientific progress.
I think of the families who endured the hardest years of the epidemic, the young people finding their voice today, and the strength of community at the heart of every HIV story. Shows like It’s A Sin brought that history home for many — a reminder of the cruelty of stigma, but also the joy, love and solidarity that carried people through. We continue to push on – ensuring no one faces HIV with fear, shame, or isolation.
For mothers and families, the emotional impact of a diagnosis can be profound. Despite medical progress, stigma can still feel heavy — and for new parents, support must be accessible, compassionate, and free from judgement. Every family deserves reassurance, clarity and care.
That is why today, I am proud to announce the government’s new HIV Action Plan — shaped by campaigners, clinicians and advocates. Our ambition is bold: to end new HIV transmissions in England by 2030. We are determined to achieve it.
And we have made extraordinary progress. HIV can now be treated to the point of being undetectable — and therefore untransmittable, so people living with the virus can lead long, healthy lives. Incredibly, mothers can now have healthy pregnancies and give birth without passing on the virus.
We understand that every family is different, and every mother deserves choice when caring for her baby. Some mothers may prefer bottle-feeding. That’s why I am proud that the government will fund formula milk and sterilisation equipment for any HIV-positive mother who wishes to use it. This removes a significant financial pressure and gives mothers confidence to choose the best option for their family. More details will be available next year.
We also know stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to ending HIV. Too many people still hesitate to get tested or seek help for fear of judgement. This must change. By having open conversations, sharing facts, and showing empathy, we can dismantle the stigma. I urge parents to talk to their children about sexual health without shame; I encourage friends to support one another to get tested; and I ask everyone to educate themselves to challenge misinformation.
Around 105,000 people in the UK are living with HIV today, and around 4,000 still do not know their status. That matters — because knowing opens the door to life-changing treatment and protects others.
Ending HIV is a task for us all — parents, teachers, friends, colleagues, neighbours. Small actions add up: a conversation, a test, an act of kindness. Every one brings us closer to a country where HIV carries no fear or stigma.
As we mark World AIDS Day, let us look ahead with hope and determination. The government is committed to the investment, leadership and compassion required to reach our 2030 goal — and to ensure every family affected by HIV has the support they need to live healthy, connected and empowered lives.
A future without new HIV transmissions is within our grasp. Together, we will get there.