Looking Back on 2025: Highs, Lows, and Looking Forward
As the year draws to a close, it’s a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the incredible work our communities, partners, and team have achieved - as well as the challenges we continue to face together.
Highs of 2025
It’s been a year full of milestones and achievements. World AIDS Day 2025 was truly exceptional - one of our most visible campaigns yet. From TV interviews to political action, and lots of clear, strong U=U messaging, the energy and impact of this campaign reminded us why we do what we do.
Our Freshers’ Survey was another standout moment. We had a fantastic response this year, and we’re excited to share the insights soon - they’ll help us understand young people’s sexual health behaviours better and shape our future work.
2025 also saw our first ever Ride for Pride, and what a success it was! The atmosphere, community spirit, and sheer joy of the day were unforgettable. Planning is already underway for the 2026 event, and we can’t wait to make it even bigger.
On the organisational front, we moved into our new home at The Mansion in Totnes - a space that inspires creativity, collaboration, and innovation every day. We also secured new contracts to continue and evolve our services in both Gloucestershire and Devon & Torbay, allowing us to reach more people with the support and education they need.
HIV Testing Week this year was HUUUGE. Highlights included welcoming a local councillor, Hayley Tranter in Torbay, to take part in testing - a powerful way to break down stigma and demonstrate that testing is normal for everyone.
Lows of 2025
Of course, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Globally, reduced funding and cuts to the HIV response are creating challenges for communities worldwide.
Closer to home, stigma remains on the rise, and sexual health is becoming increasingly politicised. This poses a real threat to how we communicate crucial health messages and reminds us why our work - to provide clear, accessible, and non-judgmental sexual health information - is more important than ever.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, 2025 has reinforced our belief in the power of community, advocacy, and hope. We head into 2026 inspired by what’s possible when people come together, speak up, and support each other.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us this year - our communities, partners, volunteers, and team. Here’s to another year of making an impact, breaking down barriers, and celebrating life, love, and health.