Founder - Clint Walters

When I was only 17 years old, I suddenly became struck down with a range of illnesses after completing my first year of A-Levels. I went into the hospital for what I was told was just some “routine tests”. My mum was sitting right next to me when the doctor told me the news “I was diagnosed HIV positive.” I knew my life would never be the same again, with no preparation whatsoever and very little information on HIV/AIDS – I honestly believed I was just given a death sentence.

At that point in time, I did not have anyone or anywhere to turn to. I found a support group in London and travelled alone for the two-hour round trip every week. Even though I was the only young person to attend the group - the group members were older gay men - I kept going. It was all I had.

Health Initiatives (previously Health Initiatives for Youth – UK) was founded in April 1999, as my answer to the lack in peer support services for HIV positive youth in this country. Young people living with HIV/AIDS are in desperate need of services encouraging their involvement. After travelling around the UK and working closely with a number of youth-run HIV organisations in San Francisco, California, I returned to London to set-up a youth project over here.

Testing HIV positive at the age of 17 is a earth shattering and unimaginable turning point in any young person’s life. The young people HI supports are often isolated without even the support of their parents or family members. HI services are built upon a number of agencies and approaches to sexual health and young people’s involvement key to the success of programmes.

Downloadable Documents

• Donation Form
  Please download this form if you would like to make a donation to Health Initiatives. Every donation is much appreciated and helps us to do more great work with young people with HIV/AIDS!