Support Groups

The West Suffolk Project

The West Suffolk Project is held once a month in Bury St. Edmunds for HIV positive people and carers to meet, gain support and access complimentary therapies.

The project was established in March 2001, inspired by Positive Clients and their Carers who felt socially isolated in the west of Suffolk and is open to anyone living in Suffolk.

The Format of the Project:
The meetings take place every month. Details are circulated well in advance, giving notice of guest speakers such as dietitians, art therapists and voluntary organisations and an opportunity to book a Complimentary Therapy session. Generally there are two therapists present who offer different therapies, including reflexology, cranilsacral massage and shiatsu.

Complimentary therapies are useful for:

  • Promoting relaxation
  • Alleviating anxiety
  • Reducing depression
  • Reducing pain
  • Reducing psychological distress
  • Living with an altered body image
  • Reducing nausea
  • Alleviating symptoms
  • Improving sleep pattern
  • Reducing stress and tension
  • Providing emotional support
  • Improving well being and quality of life

If you would like more information about the Project please contact the Community HIV Service on 01473 692616

We also have information of other localorganisations that offer support groups, such as the Women Living Positively Group and People Living Positively.

New Support Group!

The Ipswich Project follows the same format as the West Suffolk Project and began in May 2005. Further details are available from the Suffolk Community HIV Service on 01473 692616.