Community HIV Specialist Service (CHIVSS)
This service provides specialist nursing for patients who are living with HIV, including community visits, health checks and some psychological therapies.
What does this service provide?
What we do
We provide specialist nursing for patients living with HIV in the community.
Some of the services we provide are:
- venepuncture
- administration of long acting injectables
- sexual health screens and treatment
- advocacy
- care co-ordination
- psychological therapies
- medication management / switches
- frailty and co-morbidity support
- support for patients who are newly diagnosed
- multidisciplinary working
- advice and signposting / referrals
- remote management
Appointment information
Who you'll see at your appointment
To begin with you’ll typically see two of our community nurse specialists for an initial comprehensive health assessment to determine the level of support required.
Appointment types
We offer a variety of appointments types including face to face, telephone or video and clinic appointments. The appointment type depends on your specific needs but we do aim to be as flexible as possible.
What happens after my treatment or therapy plan ends?
You will be discharged back under the care of your original referrer. You will be monitored and if necessary re-referred. You can always refer yourself if you need our support.
How can I access this service?
To access our services you will need to be referred via your GP, a specialist HIV clinic or by a medical or social care professional. Professionals can contact us for a copy of our referral form and completed forms should be emailed to
All referrals must have a clear nursing need and/or a complex presentation.
Where can I access this service?
We have three teams who are based at three different locations, covering Brighton and Hove and West Sussex.
You can call any of our three contact numbers below who will provide you with information on your local team.
Opening hours
We are open Monday to Friday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm. We are closed on weekends and bank holidays.
Waiting times
We aim to contact you within three working days of acceptance of your referral.
Where can I find resources for this service?
Brighton Sexual Health – website for Brighton and Hove Sexual Health service including information on testing and accessing home STI tests
West Sussex Sexual Health – website for sexual health service in West Sussex including information on online STI testing
Aidsmap – run by the charity National Aids Manual, publishes news, updates and information for HIV positive people and to health professionals
Terrence Higgins Trust – one of the first HIV and Aids charities which offers advice, support and information including counselling and HIV testing
HIV and AIDS Support – additional information from Sussex Community Health Foundation including information on local support groups and how to arrange a HIV test
Martin Fisher Foundation – working to promote the Towards Zero initiative in Brighton and Hove (zero new HIV infections, zero HIV-related deaths, and zero HIV stigma)
Get the best from your NHS
If you need advice about our services, facilities or staff, or would like to make a comment, please contact Patient Advice and Liaison Services (PALS).
Contact details
You can contact PALS by the following:
Telephone: 01273 242 292Email: sc-tr.pals@nhs.net
Give feedback
Tell us what you think about our services, what we are good at, where we can improve, and what matters to you? All feedback will be shared anonymously wherever possible, but if you have any questions about this, please ask.
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