HIV Respite Centre on YouTube
posted: 26/05/2009
The Tyddyn Bach HIV respite centre in North Wales has launched an online video to provide a voice for those directly affected by HIV.
The short film is on YouTube and is narrated by writer and broadcaster Nick Turnbull.
The video explains the role of the Tyddyn Bach Trust in Penmaenmawr and the support it provides to people living with HIV.
Tyddyn Bach manager Philip Kearton-Smith believes the attitude towards HIV in North Wales is one of ignorance.
He said: “There’s still enormous stigma attached to HIV and people are quite often afraid to come forward with their views. Tyddyn Bach is often misunderstood as a hospice or care home but people come to stay here for a boost in confidence. If you are suffering from a life-changing illness then the last place you want to be is on a hospital ward. Everybody who comes here is referred, and guests usually stay for a week or two. It is not just a holiday, it is a learning curve in their lives and a real confidence boost for them to deal with the illness. Volunteers help guests cope with the disease and offer hope along the way.”
Former guest Tommy describes in the video how Tyddyn Bach gave him hope.
“I decided to come to Tyddyn Bach and it was the best thing I ever did. Everybody was very helpful, the atmosphere around the place, the mountains and the sea, it’s all so therapeutic,” he says.
It is hoped the video will also help boost funds as the Trust receives no statutory funding from the Government, and relies on voluntary donations and the income generated from guests.
The centre opened in 1997 and has provided support to over 2,000 individuals with HIV, as well as their families and carers.
To find out more about Tyddyn Bach, or if you would like to donate, visit their website .
You can watch the video here
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