Somerset local sexual health charity becomes part of Terrence Higgins Trust

30 Nov 2011 News

Terrence Higgins Trust, the UK’s largest HIV and sexual health charity, has merged with Somerset Gay Health.

Terrence Higgins Trust, the UK’s largest HIV and sexual health charity, has merged with Somerset Gay Health.

Steven Jones, regional manager for South West Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) said the merger came about as Somerset Gay Health faced a tough funding future and decided it would be best for its client group to get the support of another organisation to be able to continue its service. 

No redundancies will result from the merger and Somerset Gay Health's two staff will transfer over to THT. 

The merger is expected to be completed next month, when Somerset Gay Health will become part of the THT brand and be called the Terrence Higgins Trust in Somerset.

Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) has an income of £21.3m according to its most recent accounts, while Somerset Gay Health has an income of £81,921.

THT was established in 1982. It was one of the first charities to be set up in response to the HIV epidemic and has been at the forefront of the fight against HIV, and improving the nation’s sexual health, ever since. Since 1999, the charity has been building a network of regional centres across England, Scotland and Wales, of which Taunton is the newest – and most westerly – member.

Last year, THT merged with Crusaid, a charity dedicated to people with aids.