Powys commits to ending new HIV cases by 2030

Powys has taken a significant step in the fight against HIV by signing the Paris Declaration and joining the global Fast Track Cities initiative, committing to ending new HIV transmissions by 2030. 

The announcement was made in the presence of Jeremy Miles, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care. Powys becomes the latest Welsh region to join the network, making Wales the first Fast Track Nation in the world.

The Fast Track Powys initiative is a joint effort between Powys County Council, Powys Teaching Health Board, Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO), and local community groups. The partnership will focus on increasing HIV testing, tackling stigma, and improving access to prevention tools such as PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis).

Councillor Richard Church, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for Legal and Regulatory Services, said the move highlighted Powys’s commitment to health equity and inclusion.

“This is a proud moment for Powys and for Wales. We may be a rural county, but we are determined to ensure no one is left behind in the fight against HIV,” he said.

Dr Mererid Bowley, Executive Director of Public Health at Powys Teaching Health Board, said the initiative would help create a more informed and compassionate community.

“Fast Track Powys is about more than just statistics – it’s about people. We are committed to ensuring that everyone in Powys has access to the information, services, and support they need to live well and without stigma,” she said.

Powys currently has one of the lowest HIV rates in Wales, but the new initiative aims to eliminate new transmissions through targeted campaigns, improved testing, and community-led engagement.

Sarah Maslen-Roberts, Fast Track Cymru Manager, praised the commitment of local partners and said the launch in Powys was a significant milestone.

“This moment is historic not just because it marks full regional coverage, but because it shows the power of perseverance and partnership,” she said. “There are exciting things coming from Powys and I am excited to see how they take this initiative forward.”

Clair Swales, Chief Executive of PAVO, added that the third sector would continue to play a central role.

“I’m honoured to sign the Paris Declaration on behalf of Powys’ third sector. We are proud to be part of Fast Track Powys and to work alongside people with lived experience to drive real change,” she said.

More information about Fast Track Cymru is available at www.fasttrack.wales