New Community Patrons Announcement

George House Trust announces former Manchester Lord Mayor and LGBTQ+ Ambassador alongside HIV expert as new Community Patrons ahead of World AIDS Day.

The North West’s leading HIV charity, George House Trust, has announced Carl Austin-Behan OBE DL and Dr Orla McQuillan as new community Patrons in the run-up to World AIDS Day. They join existing Patrons, Doctor Who screenwriter Russell T Davies, and Drag Race star Cheddar Gorgeous.

Carl is Greater Manchester’s LGBTQ+ Ambassador. Despite an outstanding service record, including a Commander-in-Chief’s commendation, he was dismissed for being gay in 1997 when it was still illegal to serve. He later went on to win Mr Gay UK in 2001 and made history as Manchester’s first openly-gay Lord Mayor in 2016.

Upon being appointed a Community Patron, Carl stated: I am truly honoured to have been asked to become a Community Patron for George House Trust. I’ve been a passionate supporter of their work for 28 years, ever since I was discharged from the RAF and first became aware of the stigma, negativity and misunderstanding people living with HIV were forced to face due to ignorance and a lack of education.

It is a real privilege to stand alongside George House Trust as they continue breaking down stigma, challenging misconceptions, and supporting all people living with HIV. I’m proud to play even a small part in that vital work.

Dr Orla McQuillan is a leading HIV clinician and has been a Consultant in HIV and sexual health in Manchester since 2008, with special interests in outreach testing, HIV care in pregnancy and chemsex. She is Co-Chair of Greater Manchester Fast Track Cities alongside George House Trust CEO, Darren Knight, and led on the rollout of mandatory HIV related stigma training with George House Trust and Dibby Theatre within Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.

Orla stated:   I am honoured to be invited to be a charity patron and know this will help ensure the crucial work of George House Trust gets the support and recognition it deserves, as we work jointly for a world where HIV holds no one back.

Both have been steadfast and vital supporters of George House Trust and people living with HIV and we are delighted for them to join us as Community Patrons in our 40th year. As we approach World AIDS Day, such influential and supportive voices will play a key role in helping us to challenge stigma and inspire support for people living with HIV.