about us
Who are we?
Shropshire Buddies and Body Positive (SB&BP) became a registered charity in 1996 and is funded by Telford and Wrekin Primary Care Trust to provide support, information and advice services to anyone living in Shropshire who is affected by HIV.
Our paid staff includes three full time workers,various holistic therapists and a group of committed volunteers. Our volunteers enable us to offer a range of services from helping with fundraising events, supporting groups when they meet, being buddies, helping in the office and by serving as Committee Members.
What support can we offer?
Support Groups
We provide a number of self help support groups for Women, Men and Families/Carers. One of the major difficulties of living with HIV and particularly in a rural area, such as Shropshire, is the feeling you are the only one. This is not true. Shropshire is a low prevalence area for HIV but not a no area for HIV. The self help groups provide an opportunity for people closely affected by HIV to come together and share their experiences. Each group meets regularly and if you would like more information on these groups please call the office or email for further information.
Buddy Service
SB&BP has trained volunteers who can support anyone infected or affected by HIV. A buddy is a 'friend' who can offer emotional and practical help to someone affected by HIV in the most appropriate way for that person.
Complementary Therapies
We offer a range of complementary therapies including shiatsu, reflexology, massage, essential oils, Bach Flower Remedies to people living with HIV. This service is funded only through our fundraising events and any donations we receive. It is a service provided free to people living with the HIV virus.
Awareness Raising
Volunteers and staff at SB&BP work throughout Shropshire with groups, voluntary agencies, statutory agencies, youth groups and educational establishments raising HIV awareness.