About the event
Join us for an evening of conversation marking National HIV Testing Week, as we explore meaningful ways to take action – as individuals, organisations and communities – to raise awareness, challenge stigma and encourage HIV testing.
Delivered in partnership with the National HIV Story Trust, HIVstory: A Panel Discussion centres lived experience and the power of storytelling. Together, our speakers will reflect on the history and ongoing impact of HIV and AIDS, and discuss how advocacy and community action can drive real change.
Speakers
The panel will be chaired by Greg Thorpe (creative producer, writer, curator and artist), with:
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Paul Fairweather, co-founder of George House Trust and LGBT activist
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Ellie Harrison, Positive Speaker at George House Trust and HIV activist
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Orla McQuillan, HIV clinician and Co-Chair of Greater Manchester Fast Track Cities
When and where
Tuesday 10 February 2026
5.30pm–7.30pm (doors open 5.15pm)
Space 0, Contact Theatre, Oxford Rd, Manchester, M15 6JA
Schedule
5.15pm – Doors open (nibbles and refreshments provided)
5.45pm – Panel discussion begins (includes a short introductory film)
7.00pm – Audience Q&A
7.30pm – Event close
HIVstory exhibition (closing soon)
This event takes place during the final week of Manchester Histories hosting the HIVstory exhibition at the Manchester Histories Hub, Manchester Central Library. We warmly encourage you to visit the exhibition and engage with these powerful testimonies before it closes on 13 February 2026.
About HIVstory (National HIV Story Trust)
HIVstory is an innovative outreach project by the National HIV Story Trust, which holds the UK’s largest collection of filmed testimonies from people affected by HIV and AIDS. Drawing on these interviews, the project shares real-life stories of love, loss, hardship and hope, revealing how individual lives and experiences intersect within this vital history.
The project raises awareness of the AIDS pandemic and supports positive social change, particularly among younger generations with limited knowledge of this period. It also aims to support communities affected by trauma and loss, improve wellbeing, and inspire a new generation to engage with this extraordinary history.
HIVstory is delivered in partnership with The London Archives, The Royal College of Nursing, Newcastle University and the University of Central London, with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Book your place on Eventbrite: HIVstory: A Panel Discussion
If you have any questions, contact info@manchesterhistories.co.uk.
