DAPCU Kozhikode (Kerala) Response to the Theme : DAPCU's role in addressing stigma and discrimination and mobilizing support for high risk groups and people living with HIV

In Kozhikode district of Kerala, the reported cases of stigma and discrimination have steadily declined over the last two years. Awareness programmes for general population, sensitization sessions for government staff and social interactions between community and people living with HIV were organized, which helped address institutional discrimination, social exclusion and self-stigma. In the past, people living with HIV were reluctant and afraid to approach government departments and access service facilities. With increased awareness and acceptance across society, people living with HIV are now even willing to publicly disclose their status, play an active part during interactions with government departments and confidently avail health services.

Recently, a person living with HIV reported that an officer in the Revenue Department was delaying assessment and processing of a file related to land document. DAPCU team accompanied the beneficiary to interact with the concerned officer and his staff, sensitized them about HIV and explained the role of DAPCC in reviewing cases of this nature. The meeting helped remove misconceptions from the mind of the officer and staff and the file was processed without further delay. The beneficiary played a lead role in resolving this matter by actively participating in all interactions with the department.

To address community based stigma issues and establish a supportive environment for people living with HIV and their families, DAPCU brought together and sensitized local self-government officials, health functionaries and community leaders. Linkages with NACP service facilities have also been strengthened.

Facilitating access to social protection schemes for people living with HIV and Most At Risk Populations (MARPs) is included as an agenda item in DAPCC meetings. DAPCU has helped beneficiaries apply for and obtain government social entitlements. DAPCU assisted CSC Vihaan in receiving BPL status for people living with HIV by raising the issue in DAPCC meetings and following up with District Administration officials.