In Partnership with National AIDS Control Organization & Tamil Nadu State AIDS Control Society
Funding Support from The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria
Background
VHS was selected by NACO as lead management agency for implementing Link Worker Scheme through MOU with TANSACS, supported by GFATM
Link Worker Scheme is a rural community based intervention that addresses HIV prevention, care and support needs of high risk groups and vulnerable populations living in high prevalence districts
Implemented in 21 high prevalence and vulnerable districts of Tamil Nadu aimed at halting the spread of HIV in rural areas, in close collaboration with TANSACS, and engaging 21 Non-Government Organizations as implementing partners at district level
On completion of project period, all 21 NGOs were transitioned to TANSACS through a systematic and transparent process for ensuring ownership and continuity of the program
LWS program built the capacity of rural communities in addressing STI/HIV/AIDS, engaged a highly motivated and trained village based work force comprising Supervisors, Link Workers and Volunteers and improved their understanding on STI / HIV / AIDS, gender and sexuality
High risk groups and vulnerable populations were sensitized to access HIV/AIDS related services and information and avail government social welfare schemes
Focus Areas
Creating awareness among targeted rural populations through correct and comprehensive information on STI/HIV/AIDS
Increasing availability, accessibility and use of condoms
Generating demand for screening and treatment of HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections, TB
Increasing uptake of HIV and STI clinical services by establishing linkages with service facilities, strengthening the referral mechanism and making regular follow-ups
Engaging in advocacy for reducing stigma and discrimination faced by people living with HIV
Linking high risk and vulnerable populations with government social protection schemes
Key Results
Systematically scaled-up to cover 2,175 vulnerable villages across 21 high prevalence districts
Reached out to 24,000 people from high risk groups, 1.3 lakh bridge population, 1.2 lakh vulnerable population and 7,800 people living with HIV
Trained 840 Link Workers and more than 35,000 Volunteers
Established more than 3,000 Village Information Centers
