This new 12‑month pilot replaces the previous contracts held with Terrence Higgins Trust across the four authorities.
The service aims to improve sexual health outcomes for Teesside residents, reduce HIV transmission and prevent late‑stage diagnosis.
It will work with people living with HIV, including those who are newly diagnosed, those who are no longer engaged in treatment and those living well with HIV. In addition, the service will develop and support a Peer-Led Community Group.
South Tees Public Health Principal Rebecca Scott said: “Health inequalities remain a significant cause of HIV diagnoses across Teesside, and this new service is designed to address that head‑on.
“By working collectively across our four local authorities and in partnership with Terrence Higgins Trust, we are giving support where it is needed the most by reducing late diagnosis, strengthening prevention and ensuring local people living with HIV are supported.
“At the heart of this service is those who are living with HIV, by sharing their experiences through the peer-led support group, we can tackle health inequality and improve outcomes for everyone.”
Terrence Higgins Trust Teesside Service Manager Anthony Young said: “We are really pleased to be working alongside communities across Teesside as part of this new 12‑month pilot.
“This service is about meeting people where they are, listening to their experiences, and working together to strengthen HIV prevention and support in ways that truly matter to local people.
“We will be supporting people living with HIV at every stage - whether newly diagnosed, living well with HIV, or those who have become disconnected from services - alongside ongoing prevention work, including promoting awareness and access to PrEP.
“At the heart of this approach is building trust, sharing clear information and making sure people feel supported and respected.”
A key part of the service will be the development of a Peer-Led Support Group, which will amplify the voices of people living with HIV, ensuring their experiences shape how support is delivered locally.
Anthony added: “Their insight will help us focus on what enables people not just to manage their health, but to live well and thrive.
“This pilot will play an important role in shaping future services as we work towards the 2030 goal of zero new HIV transmissions.
“We are excited to work with communities to challenge stigma, remove barriers to care, and normalise HIV testing so more people feel confident to test, know their status and access the support they need.”
• For more information visit Teesside | Terrence Higgins Trust
