Peer Support

The challenges of living with HIV/AIDS, and the associated stigma can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness which can reduce a person's quality of life and cause difficulty in accessing information. Women have additional challenges, being a minority group within the HIV sector and having the challenges of managing pregnancy and/or family life. Research suggests that peer support, which includes the sharing of experiences, can be beneficial for emotional well being. The sense of having a connection can reduce feelings of isolation and improve uptake of information. Improvements in emotional wellbeing can have positive influence on physical health, something which is very important for people living with HIV/AIDS. Positive Women Victoria facilitates peer support, either in a one on one scenario or group social get-togethers. Peer support in person can be arranged at our office or at a pre-organised location such as your clinic or hospital appointment. HIV-positive women are also welcome to phone or email our office for anonymous peer support.

Monthly Newsletter

Positive Women Victoria produces a monthly newsletter for HIV-positive women that includes reports on what projects our organisation has been undertaking, upcoming events, support resources for positive women and families and the latest information on living with HIV/AIDS. HIV-positive women also regularly contribute to the newsletter, sharing their stories and experiences.  This newsletter is sent to members only.  It can be sent via post or by email.

Food Vouchers

Positive Women Victoria raises funds to provide up to 6 food vouchers of $40.00 value annually for HIV-positive women in financial need. This is a total of $240.00 in food vouchers from July 1st to June 30th. Individuals wishing to access food vouchers are asked to provide proof of receipt of a pension or health care card, which can be sighted by office staff or a copy sent to the office each financial year. Your social worker or other community worker or nurse can also contact us to discuss your financial situation.  Your confidentiality is assured.

Personal Development

Positive Women Victoria supports members to undertake personal development courses,skills development or return to work courses.  We also provide training in peer supportfor members to support other HIV-positive women, advertise suitable sector and mainstream job opportunities and support HIV-positive women in their work where we can.

Member Retreats

Peer support, increased information sharing and relaxation are all important factors in staying well for women living with HIV/AIDS. Today, many positive women live busy lives and do not have contact with other positive women or the opportunity for time away and learning. Positive Women Victoria's annual retreats are an avenue for peer support, with the group of positive women attending providing information and mutual support. Retreats provide structured activities where attendees can gain information and support around issues associated with living with HIV, as well as the opportunity to socialize and relax. Finally, retreats offer an environment that is safe, accepting and relaxed where HIV positive women are able to be themselves.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Ensuring privacy and confidentiality is a core part of our activities in supporting Victorian HIV-positive women. As well as being a basic human right and something we must comply with by law, it builds trust between women and the organisation. Positive Women Victoria currently has policy and procedure around ensuring confidentiality and privacy.