AVERT is a UK-based organisation that has been working at the forefront of HIV education for the past 30 years. 

Through their award-winning educational website, other digital channels, and partnerships with local civil society organisations working in some of the hardest hit countries, they reached 10 million people last year with information, tools and resources that empowered them with knowledge to take action on HIV.

History

Founded in 1986, Avert has been providing information on HIV and AIDS since the earliest days of the epidemic.

Avert was one of the first charities to provide people with knowledge about HIV to protect themselves and others from infection, reduce stigma and break down barriers to treatment and support.

Millions of educational leaflets, posters and training guides were sent across the UK and globally to countries most affected by HIV. AVERT also supported medical research grants to advance the understanding of HIV and its impact at the time. 

In 1995 they launched AVERT.org, moving their information provision service online and increasing their reach and impact. Their award-winning site is now widely recognised as one of the world’s leading online providers of HIV and AIDS information, and last year reached over 700,000 individuals every month.

In 2000 they started providing partnership and grant support to local NGOs working in places heavily affected by HIV. They have supported more than 25 organisations working in India, Russia, and southern and east Africa since then.

In recent years the focus of their NGO partner support has shifted to Southern Africa, the region which faces the most complex challenges from HIV. They work closely with community-based organisations who offer prevention, care and support where it’s needed most.

Based in Horsham, UK, for most of its existence, Avert moved to Brighton, UK, in August 2015.

Vision, Mission and Values

AVERT’s vision is a world with no new HIV infections, and where those living with HIV and AIDS do so with equality and the support they need.

Their mission is to ensure widespread knowledge and understanding of HIV and AIDS, in order to reduce infections and improve the lives of those affected. They will do this by promoting innovative approaches, partnerships and action to inform and empower.

Through their organisational values they strive to be:

Evidence-based
Responsive
Trustworthy
Innovative
Committed