Description/Overview: Purpose: Worldwide since the recognition of HIV and AIDS in 1981, efforts have been made to increase knowledge, prevent the spread of HIV, as well as increase the role out of antiretroviral treatment (ARV) to as many HIV infected people as possible. However, we have neglected our responsibility when it comes to the complex phenomenon HIV stigma. Little effort has been made to reduce HIC stigma. This symposium focuses on an innovative mixed method approach utilising a comprehensive community-based HIV stigma reduction and wellness enhancement intervention. Methods: A mixed method embedded design was followed combining a quantitative single-system design with a pre-test and four repetitive post-test measures and a holistic multiple case study. PLHA were selected using a purposive sample followed by snow ball sampling for PLC. Descriptive statistical analysis, open coding for the qualitative data and case study documentation were used. Results: For the purpose of this symposium the focus will be on the results obtained from the comprehensive community-based HIV stigma reduction and wellness enhancement intervention with PLHA and their close family members, as well as the change-over-time in the three dependant variables (HIV stigma, psycho social wellbeing and HIV behaviour). Conclusion: All the energy and money we put into the role out of ARV to curb the HIV pandemic will come to nothing unless we can eradicate HIV stigma in our communities. To do this effectively we also have to ensure that enough funding is available to conduct these programmes and that we use multiple sources of knowledge and skills. We should find interventions that focus on large groups and really reach the soul of the community, helping them to take personal responsibility for this complex situation that differs widely in different cultures. We have to face this challenge and develop effective approaches to reduce HIV stigma.

Learner Objective #1: The learner will be able to gain knowledge in the planning and implementation of an innovative comprehensive community-based HIV stigma reduction and wellness enhancement intervention.

Learner Objective #2: The learner will be able to gain insight into how a mixed method research design brings an in-depth understanding of a complex community problem.