Ageing Well: Long Term Survivors Workshop Series: Session 2

Ageing Well: Long Term Survivors Workshop Series

Session 2: Shared Stories and Lived Experiences

Date: Thursday 22 October 2026
Time: 12pm to 3pm
Venue: Angel Centre, Salford (Rainbow Mind/Mind in Salford), Lowry Conference Room

Who is this for?

This workshop is open to people diagnosed with HIV before 2000.

This is the second session in our three part Long Term Survivors Workshop Series, recognising the unique experiences of people who have lived with HIV over many decades. For many long term survivors, there has been little opportunity to explore the lasting impact of those experiences alongside others who truly understand them.

Through discussion, shared stories and creative activities, the series provides a supportive space to reflect on significant life experiences, remember loved ones, and recognise the resilience, wisdom and strengths developed through living with HIV.

As the workshops explore themes of trauma, loss and personal experience, some discussions may be emotional. A sensitive and supportive approach will be taken throughout. Participants are welcome to bring photographs, objects or other personal items that connect them to meaningful moments in their life with HIV.

About Session 2

Building on the themes introduced in Session 1, this workshop will focus on sharing stories and lived experiences. Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their personal journeys and explore how living with HIV over many decades has shaped their lives, relationships and sense of self.

Through guided discussion and creative activities, the session will offer space to connect with others, find common experiences and recognise the value of the stories we carry.

Meet Our Facilitators

Professor Michelle Croston is an HIV Specialist Nurse who has worked in HIV care for more than 25 years. She has worked at both national and international level to improve outcomes for people living with HIV and has a particular interest in mental health, psychological wellbeing and ageing well.

Justine Mellor is an Advanced Clinical Practitioner who has worked in HIV services since 2003 across hospital, outpatient and community settings. She has a particular interest in the health and social issues affecting people living with HIV, especially those ageing with HIV and managing multiple health conditions.

Dr Sarah Rutter and Dr Mika Karachaliou will also be in attendance, providing continuity and support across the workshop series.

Programme

12pm to 12.30pm – Arrival and refreshments

12.30pm to 2pm – Workshop session

2pm to 2.30pm – Lunch break

2.30pm to 3pm – Workshop session

A light lunch and refreshments will be provided. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Getting to the Angel Centre

The Angel Centre is located on Chapel Street (A6), close to Manchester city centre.

By Bus

Routes 100, 67, 38, 36, 37, 12 and 8 stop nearby. The nearest stop is by The Old Pint Pot.

By Car

Free parking is available at the rear of the building via Winton Place. Please register your vehicle registration number in the foyer on arrival.

Accessibility

The workshop is on the first floor within Rainbow Mind/Mind in Salford. Lift access is available from the foyer.

For further information, or to discuss any access requirements, please contact Stephen.

Please note: We know that life can get in the way and plans can change, so if you book to attend one of our events and are no longer able to come along, please let us know as soon as possible by emailing info@ght.org.uk or telephoning us. This means we can offer your place to someone else and avoid unnecessary catering costs.