A NEW support group aims to benefit men with HIV living in Bristol where late diagnosis is almost 10 per cent higher than the national average.

The group, from HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust, aims to bring together men living with HIV from all backgrounds in one space so they can talk and resolve problems, express feelings, form friendships, receive information and advice, and take part in social activities.

Men living with HIV in Bristol, South Gloucester and North Somerset are set to benefit from the support group which is holding its first session tomorrow.

Pamela Hampton, coordinator of the Health Navigator Project at Terrence Higgins Trust in Bristol, said: “We hope this new group will provide an excellent setting for men living with HIV in the city to share their experiences and to talk about the future.

“We know that living with HIV can have its challenges and at times can feel like an isolating experience, but our men’s group aims to bring together men living with HIV in one space, so they can benefit from peer support and form new friends.”

Figures show 477 people are living with diagnosed HIV in Bristol and the percentage of people diagnosed late in the city is 49 per cent, higher than the national average of 42 per cent.

The first session of the group will be held tomorrow between 12pm and 4.30pm at the charity’s centre on 8-10 West Street, Old Market, Bristol.