In this edition

1,000 VCT tests in the Congo

100’s more educators needed in Asia

3 respite weekends in Ireland

2 new patrons for ACET UK

Our team in the D R Congo recently marked a significant milestone, offering their 1,000th voluntary HIV test.  Stigma and ignorance remain major barriers to people being tested for HIV and many become sick and even die not knowing the cause of their illness or that effective treatment to prolong their life is available. Each test is given alongside confidential and compassionate counseling, particularly for those who are found to be HIV positive.  The test, costing just a few pounds, can often be the start of a new life as those tested discover why it is that they are sick and can begin to access support and treatment.  For more information about our care work and to make a donation, click here

Across the Central Asian Republics, ACET teams are planning for significant growth to tackle the HIV time bomb.  Whilst current HIV infection rates are relatively low in these countries, they are rising fast and the need for prevention messages for a predominantly young population is urgent.   Rapid change has meant many communities have lost touch with traditional values and there is a rapid increase in drug abuse and other high risk behaviours.  In response, ACET is seeking to recruit 100’s of new volunteer educators and produce more educational resources for schools and youth groups.  For more information about our work in Asia, click here.

ACET Ireland is preparing to offer its third respite weekend of 2009 in mid June for people living with HIV and AIDS.  HIV positive people and their relatives face daily problems, not only with the infection itself, but also ignorance and stigma from those around them.  These weekends, at Cavan in rural Ireland, provide a much needed break for the whole family in a warm and welcoming environment.  For more information about ACET Ireland, visit www.acet.ie

Meanwhile ACET UK is delighted to announce the appointment of two new patrons, Margaret Sentamu, wife of the Archbishop of York and Steve Clifford, the newly elected General Director of the Evangelical Alliance.  To find out more about why Margaret and Steve got involved, see the latest news

Thank you for your interest and support

Peter Fabian

Chief Executive