VPWAS provides free, confidential Peer Navigation and Peer Support to anyone who is living with HIV, knows someone living with HIV, or is concerned about HIV
Our Peer Navigators work in partnership with Victoria Health Unit – STI Clinic (1947 Cook Street) and the Access Health Centre (713 Johnson Street)
PEER NAVIGATION
Connect with someone living with HIV
The HIV Peer Navigation Program supports people diagnosed with HIV to navigate the complex environment of HIV treatment & care
Talking with someone who is living with HIV, like you, can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Peer Navigators can provide current HIV information, answer questions,and show how other people deal with HIV.
Learning how to live well with HIV does not have to be overwhelming, and no one has to do it alone.
Newly diagnosed or looking for support?
Get connected with someone who has been there.
Connect with a Peer Navigator:
Call 250.382.7927 | toll free: 1.877.382.7927 | email: support@vpwas.org
WHAT WE’LL TALK ABOUT TOGETHER
The HIV Peer Navigation program is based on providing both information and emotional support. Our conversations are aimed at increasing your understanding of HIV and related issues.
Topics can include:
- HIV 101
- Working with your heathcare team
- HIV treatments – understanding TASP (Treatment-as-Prevention) and the importance of adherence and maintaining an undetectable viral load.
- Disclosure tips – how to tell those you care about that you have been diagnosed HIV positive; and some situations where the law requires you to disclose your HIV status.
- Social supports & maintaining resilience – understanding that you are not alone, your feelings are normal; you can build resilience and reach out for help.
Connect with a Peer Navigator:
Call 250.382.7927 | toll free: 1.877.382.7927 | email: support@vpwas.org
The goals of the HIV Peer Navigation Program are:
Provide you with immediate peer support if you are recently diagnosed with HIV; or coming to terms with your HIV diagnosis;
Increase your understanding of HIV so that you can make reasoned and informed decisions about your treatment and care;
Help you to navigate the sometimes complex environment of testing, treatments, doctors, pharmacies and other allied health services; and
Where necessary, provide intensive support to ensure you are connected to both health, community and peer support services.
Connect with a Peer Navigator:
Call 250.382.7927 | toll free: 1.877.382.7927 | email: support@vpwas.org