Counselling a a Mechnism for Supporting Community Change to Combat AIDS

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The MRC/UVRI Programme in rural Uganda is epidemiological and also aims to improve the welfare of the community. To facilitate this aim counsellors have been employed to support the community as it changes to combat AIDS. Methods: Eight counsellors were trained by a professional counsellor. The counsellors were then placed the community with parish councils to provide a support service. This included being attached to schools; providing family and marriage guidance; pre - and post-test counselling and facilitating the involvement of HIV+ people as community chnage agents. Results: The counsellors have been accepted by the community and are being utilized. They are supporting community activities and their seir service is recognised and valued. Conclusion: Support for communities is vital if they are to combat AIDS. Providing a professional counselling service does facilitate this process