Positive East

Qigong Exercise
2024-10-30 15:15 - 16:00 UTC | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Qigong, pronounced “chi gong,” was developed in China thousands of years ago as part of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves using exercises to optimize energy within the body, mind, and spirit, with the goal of improving and maintaining health and well-being.
The sessions are led by Truus Jansen. They are informal sessions, so you don’t currently need to book, although it’s helpful if you can let us know in advance that you intend to come along as the sessions could become very popular. You’re advised to wear loose comfortable clothing.
For more information, or to tell us you’re coming contact mina.kakaiya@positiveeast.org.uk

Ear Acupuncture
2024-10-30 16:30 - 17:30 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Ear acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that involves very fine needles being placed in various points of your outer ear. Many people have found it can help with a variety of health issues, include sleep, pain management, nausea and stomach problems, relieving stress and anxiety.
The sessions are led by Truus Jansen. They are informal sessions which take place in a group environment. You don’t currently need to book, although it’s helpful if you can let us know in advance that you intend to come along as the sessions could become very popular. As you need to sit quietly once the treatment has begun for around half an hour, the last admittance to the session is 5.15 pm
For more information, or to tell us you’re coming contact mina.kakaiya@positiveeast.org.uk

Mindfulness meditation
2024-11-01 12:30 - 13:00, 2024-11-05 17:00 - 17:30
Everybody needs a little time away from the everyday stresses and strains of life. Twice a week, Andre Smith – Positive East’s Counselling Co-ordinator – leads a 30 minute online mindfulness meditation session.
These usually run twice every week on:

Tuesdays at 5pm
Fridays at 12.30pm

For more information on how to join, please email Andre at andre.smith@positiveeast.org.uk

Rainbow Men: Hallowe'en at the Tower of London
2024-11-02 13:00 - 16:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Rainbow Men is our social and support group for gay and bisexual men living with HIV, including men who have sex with men but don’t identify as gay or bisexual. This group is for you if you are HIV positive and either live in East London or get your HIV care in an East London clinic. It usually meets on the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. This month we have an extra event.
Join us for a hauntingly good time at the Tower of London. With a thousand years of history within its walls, encounter the restless spirits of the past this Hallowe’en as you walk in the footsteps of the famous ghosts at the Tower of London. Tickets are limited so please let us know if you want to come. Depending on numbers wanting to come, we may be able to open up to group members bringing a guest
For more information, or to tell us you’re coming, contact Nick Maxwell

Foodcycle Stepney Green
2024-11-04 13:00 - 15:00
Every Monday we welcome FoodCycle’s volunteers to use our kitchen and our cafe area to provide a delicious hot lunch. This is open to anyone living with HIV across London. By cooking with surplus ingredients, they promote healthy, sustainable attitudes towards food and its impact on the environment, and help people to learn more about healthy food.
Lunch is usually served shortly after 1pm. Lunch is served to your table by FoodCycle volunteers, so you’ll need to arrive by 1pm.
For more information, visit FoodCycle Stepney Green If you’d like to come along, contact FoodCycle stepneygreen@foodcycle.org.uk

Learning to live well with HIV
2024-11-04 18:00 - 20:30
Have you been diagnosed with HIV in the last 3 years? The Living Well with HIV Course is an ideal way for you to learn more about HIV, connect with others, learn more about sex and relationships and understand about U=U (Undetectable means Untransmittable), and discover ways of staying well. The sessions are delivered in a relaxed and safe environment, by knowledgeable experts with lived experience.
This course will help you deal with your diagnosis and gain the knowledge and tools to live well with HIV. This four part course runs on four consecutive Monday evenings – with a break in the middle during the school half-term week – starting on Monday 14th October. The course is free, and open to anyone living with HIV who lives in London.
The course dates are Mondays the 14th and 21st October, then 4th and 11th November – all running from 6pm to 8.30pm
It’s been specially created in a partnership of METRO, Positive East, Positively UK and Terrence Higgins Trust – made possible by Fast Track Cities London. The October/November course is being led by Terrence Higgins Trust with support from Positive East. The sessions will be delivered in-person at a Terrence Higgins Trust venue in London – full details will be given once you have registered to attend
To find out more and register a place please email livingwell@tht.org.uk or call Mel on 07552 891 547 (Wednesday to Friday)
Our own Sarah Boum-Enock will be supporting Mel in delivering the course, so you can also speak with her about the course sarah.boum-enock@positiveeast.org.uk or call 020 7791 9341

Stitch Sisters - closing session
2024-11-05 10:00 - 13:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Stitch Sisters is our creative sewing group that is part of our Health and Wellbeing Service’s Re:Assure Women’s project, a dedicated service for women living with HIV who have experienced complex trauma and often have experiences of the UK immigration system. Stitch Sisters supports women to engage in an activity that improves mental well-being and provides a strong community of women with similar lived experiences, whilst also learning a new skill.
If you’ve not been part of Re:Assure before, Stitch Sisters is an ideal opportunity to get an introduction to the service.
This is the third time we’ve run Stitch Sisters. If you would like to take part in a future series, please get in touch
For more information about Stitch Sisters, or the wider Re:Assure programme, contact Joanne.McCarthy@positiveeast.org.uk call 020 7791 9355 or speak to any of the Health and Wellbeing Team

Positive Over 50: Lunch
2024-11-07 13:00 - 15:00, 2024-12-05 13:00 - 15:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Our monthly lunch group for people living with HIV who either live in any of the East London Boroughs, or get your HIV care an an East London clinic.
Join us for a tasty, freshly prepared lunch provided by our colleagues from Food Chain. Stay behind and engage in one of our discussion topics, hear from guest speakers, or join in one of our Positive Over 50: Out and about trips to places of interest. Or stay and join in the conversation with old friends and new.
For more information contact jack.summerside@positiveeast.org.uk

Men's Wellbeing Workshops - 1 of 3: Mind
2024-11-11 14:30 - 16:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
November is Men’s Health Awareness Month, so we have a series of three workshops: “Mind-Heart-Body”. The sessions will run on three consecutive Mondays from 11th November – from 2:30pm to 4pm, after our usual Monday Food Cycle Stepney Green lunch, so why not come for the food and stay for the workshops. These workshops are open to all HIV positive men registered (or eligible) to use Positive East’s services – whatever your age, sexuality, or identity.

11th November will be facilitated by Dr Stuart Gibson, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at The Royal London, and will explore men’s mental health.
18th, November will be facilitated by Rebecca Mbewe, Research Assistant, Queen Mary University London, and focus on our relationships with those around us.
25th November, facilitated by Stewart O’Callaghan, founder & Chief Executive Officer of “Outpatients”, the UK’s only LGBTIQ+ cancer charity, will look at men’s physical health, including sexual health and cancers affecting men.

For more information and to sign up, please email nick.maxwell@positiveeast.org.uk or call on 020 7791 9302.

Winter vaccines available at Positive East
2024-11-13 12:00 - 16:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
As winter approaches and we spend more time indoors, we see many dangerous viruses circulating in our communities including flu and COVID-19. Getting vaccinated ahead of winter is by far your best defence.
Living with HIV means it may be harder for your body to fight off diseases, so you’re more likely to get a virus like flu or COVID-19, and more likely to develop serious health problems when you do get ill.
We’ve organised this opportunity to get your vaccinations here in our Stepney Green building. This is open for Positive East and Food Chain clients. This is being provided by Woodgrange Medical Practice, but is for anyone in any East London borough
For more information contact Beth.Hopson@positiveeast.org.uk

Together Group
2024-11-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Together is our social and support group for anyone living with HIV. This group is for you if you are HIV positive and either live in East London or get your HIV care in an East London clinic. It usually meets on the second Wednesday evening of each month, but this day and time may vary especially for visits out, so its best to check these listing regularly.
This month we’re taking a look at barriers to staying engaged with your HIV care
A tasty, freshly prepared hot meal will be served just after 6pm. Please let us know in advance if you intend to come so we can plan for catering.
If travel or care costs are a barrier to taking part, you need to let us know in advance. See here for details of eligibility
For more information, or to tell us you’re coming, contact Sarah Boum-Enock on 020 7791 9341 or email sarah.boum-enock@positiveeast.org.uk

Collage Self-Portrait Workshop with Hera Santos
2024-11-18 14:30 - 16:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Exploring Identity Through Collage Making is a fun and creative workshop where people come together to explore ideas about gender and identity using art.
In this workshop, you’ll get to make collages that help express who you are and how you see yourself. It’s a chance to get creative, reflect on your personal identity, and share your thoughts with others in a supportive, inclusive space.
The focus is on self-expression and building a positive sense of self, while also encouraging group discussions to create understanding and connection. Whether you’re exploring gender, identity, HIV stigma or simply looking for a new way to express yourself, this workshop aims to empower you and help you feel part of a welcoming community.
We’re thrilled that artist Hera Santos is coming to Positive East with this workshop, as part of our marking of Transgender Awareness Week which runs from 13th to 19th November. The workshop is open to anyone registered with Positive East, whatever your gender, sexuality or identity. It runs directly after our usual Monday Food Cycle Stepney Green lunch, so why not come for the food and stay for the workshop
For more information or to book a place, contact sarah.boum-enock@positiveeast.org.uk

Men's Wellbeing Workshops - 2 of 3: Heart
2024-11-18 14:30 - 16:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom

Rainbow Men
2024-11-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Rainbow Men is our social and support group for gay and bisexual men living with HIV, including men who have sex with men but don’t identify as gay or bisexual. This group is for you if you are HIV positive and either live in East London or get your HIV care in an East London clinic. It usually meets on the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month, but this day and time may vary especially for visits out, so its best to check these listing regularly.
This month we’re taking a look at barriers to staying engaged with your HIV care
A delicious hot meal will be served just after 6pm. Please let us know in advance if you intend to come so we can plan for numbers.
If travel or care costs are a barrier to taking part, you need to let us know in advance. See here for details of eligibility
For more information, or to tell us you’re coming, contact Nick Maxwell

World AIDS Day RED RUN
2024-11-23 11:00 - 14:00
The RED RUN isn’t a race – it’s a movement. This inclusive event welcomes all ages and abilities, fostering a spirit of community over competition. It’s your chance to join thousands and make a real difference to support the lives of people living with HIV.
Wind through the scenic paths of Victoria Park alongside walkers, runners, and sashayers! As a combined 5k and 10k (chipped timed) route, the RED RUN offers a rewarding day for everyone.
Last year, over 3,000 people participated, raising a staggering £232,000 for 30 HIV charities! Join us this year and help strengthen the UK’s response to HIV.
If you have any questions about this year’s World AIDS Day RED RUN please email Ian Montgomery at Positive East via ian.montgomery@positiveeast.org.uk

Men's Wellbeing Workshops - 3 of 3: Body
2024-11-25 14:30 - 16:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom

Women's Group
2024-11-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Our Women’s Group is a regular social and support group for women living with HIV who either live in East London or if you get your HIV care in an East London clinic. It usually meet on the 4th Wednesday evening of each month, but this day and time may vary especially for visits out, so its best to check these listing regularly.
This month we’re taking a look at barriers to staying engaged with your HIV care
A tasty, freshly prepared hot meal will be served just after 6pm. Please let us know in advance if you intend to come so we can plan ahead.
If travel or care costs are a barrier to taking part, you need to let us know in advance. See here for details of eligibility
For more information, or to tell us you’re coming, contact Sarah Boum-Enock by email on sarah.boum-enock@positiveeast.org.uk or call 020 7791 9341

Gym Induction for new gym users
2024-11-28 16:00 - 18:00
Did you know we have a fully equipped spacious gym on our lower ground floor, with changing rooms, showers and lockers. It’s free, friendly, fun, and the perfect way to start your way to a fitter, healthier you.
To use the gym, you need to be eligible (living or getting your HIV care in East London), and have registered to use our services. Also, it’s essential that you first have an induction session to assess your needs and show you how to use the equipment safely and effectively.
Induction sessions are usually on the last Thursday of each month, at 4pm and 5pm. If you’ve previously had a gym induction but it was a while ago, or just want a refresher, you can book for these too. You also need to bring suitable exercise clothing to wear for your induction, or you won’t be able to have your induction.
Contact our Reception on our main number 020 7791 2855 to book your induction.

Getting the best from your GP (Family Doctor)
2024-12-03 18:30 - 20:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
The December edition in our series of Wellbeing Matters events which focus on the health and wellbeing matters that people with HIV – particularly people over 50 – have asked to learn more about. These are in-person events, with an option of joining remotely by Zoom.
This time it’s a focus on ‘Getting the best from your GP (Family Doctor). It can be confusing and sometimes frustrating when some of our health care comes from our HIV clinic, and some is from our GP. We’ll look at some of the challenges, as well as opportunities, for us as patients, as well as for the GPs.
We’ll have Dr. Daniel Gibney, the HIV GP Champion for Tower Hamlets, plus we hope the HIV GP Champions from some of the other East London boroughs can attend.
For more information, to book a place, or register to receive the Zoom link contact sara.boum-enock@positiveeast.org.uk
Note: There will be some light snacks. The Zoom link will be sent out on the morning of the event, but not before.

Winter vaccines - what you need to know
2024-12-05 12:30 - 13:30
An extra Wellbeing Matters event with a focus on winter vaccines, with Dr Tehseen Khan
Dr Tehseen Khan is a practicing GP and Clinical Advisor for the NHS Vaccination Programme
As winter approaches and we spend more time indoors, we see many dangerous viruses circulating in our communities including flu and COVID-19. Getting vaccinated ahead of winter is by far your best defence.
Living with HIV means it may be harder for your body to fight off diseases, so you’re more likely to get a virus like flu or COVID-19, and more likely to develop serious health problems when you do get ill.
For more information contact jack.summerside@positiveeast.org.uk

Positive Over 50: Out and About - Museum of the Home
2024-12-05 14:00 - 16:30
Join us in our special Positive Over 50: Out and About for the festive season. We’ve organised a visit to the Museum of the Home in Hoxton, with a special guided tour of their newly refreshed Rooms Through Time exhibition. This shows rooms, and the stories of the people who lived in them, throughout history, right up to the present day. And the rooms have all been decorated to reflect the different ways people have celebrated Christmas and other mid-Winter festivals throughout history.
We’ll be setting off from Positive East after the Positive Over 50: Lunch shortly after 2pm, for our tour beginning at 3pm
For more information contact jack.summerside@positiveeast.org.uk

Winter Celebration
2024-12-10 16:00 - 19:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Our social and support groups Together, Rainbow Men and Women’s Group are all taking a break in December, and everyone is welcomed to celebrate Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa, Yuletide, the Winter Solstice, or whatever you celebrate at this time of year at our annual festive Winter Celebration.
Our Winter Celebration is open to anyone registered to use Positive East services, or eligible to (HIV positive, and either live in any of the East London Boroughs, or get your HIV treatment in any of the East London clinics).
There’ll be tasty food from our friends at Food Chain, festive music, a glass of wine or beer or a soft drink, a free raffle with a choice of prizes, plus some goody bags for the children.

Children are welcome, though they will need to remain under your supervision at all times.
If travel costs are a barrier, speak to us ahead of the day. Travel costs can be paid for people with No Recourse to Public Funds, or experiencing a delay or gap in benefits or income.
If you are in financial hardship, talk to any of the Health and Wellbeing or Advice Teams

It helps us to plan for catering numbers if you could let us know you want to come. Please let Mina.Kakaiya@positiveeast.org.uk know

Complementary Therapy regulars - Festive Dinner
2024-12-18 18:00 - 20:00
We’re delighted to offer a festive dinner exclusively for people who have used our Qigong or Ear Acupuncture over the last year. This will take place after the final sessions for 2024 on the evening of Wednesday 18th December.
Our amazing therapist Truus is taking a well deserved break, and Qigong and Ear Acupuncture sessions will resume on Wednesday 8th January 2025
For more information, or to let us know you’re coming, contact Nick.Maxwell@PositiveEast.org.uk

Rainbow Men goes to the National Theatre
2024-12-19 18:30 - 21:00
For the festive season, we’ve organised a special Rainbow Men evening at the National Theatre to see this flamboyant and joyful new production of Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy The Importance Of Being Earnest.
Starring Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke (Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom; Doctor Who) is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) and Hugh Skinner (W1A; Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again) in this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance.
You can see more details and view the trailer here
For more information and to request a free ticket contact Nick.Maxwell@positiveeast.org.uk

Closed from 2pm for Christmas Eve
2024-12-24 14:00 - 17:00

Closed for Christmas Day
2024-12-25 08:00 - 17:00

Closed for Boxing Day
2024-12-26 08:00 - 17:00

Mid-Winter Drop In
2024-12-27 11:00 - 14:00 | Positive East, 159 Mile End Road, London, E1 4AQ, United Kingdom
Positive East will close around 2pm on Christmas Eve – Tuesday 24th December and re-open as normal on Thursday 2nd January
We’ll be open for drop in between 11am and 2pm on:

Friday 27th December
Monday 30th December
Tuesday 31st December

This will be for peer support, emergency referrals, and hardship support
