In 1987, a falling tombstone became the stark centrepiece of the UK’s awareness campaign, accompanied by the chilling warning: “It is a deadly disease and there is no known cure.” The message was clear- fear was the primary tool in the fight against HIV. Today, more than 35 years later, medical advancements mean those living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives. Yet, stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to progress.

In 2025, Tackle HIV, an awareness campaign led by Welsh rugby legend Gareth Thomas and sponsored by ViiV Healthcare, will take centre stage at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show with the Tackle HIV Challenging Stigma Garden. Designed by Manoj Malde, the garden is a living representation of the progress made in HIV treatment and the ongoing fight to eradicate stigma.

Through bold design, symbolism, and powerful storytelling, it aims to educate and challenge misconceptions about HIV.

Gareth Thomas has been one of the most vocal advocates in the UK for shifting public perceptions of HIV. Since publicly disclosing his status in 2019, he has worked tirelessly to dismantle the shame and misunderstanding surrounding the virus. Speaking about the impact of stigma, Thomas has said, “It’s not the virus that hurts me- it’s people’s attitude towards it.” His work with Tackle HIV is focused on education, dialogue, and normalising HIV testing, ensuring no one living with the virus feels isolated or ashamed.

The campaign has a clear message: HIV is no longer a death sentence. Modern medicine means that people with HIV who are on effective treatment have an undetectable viral load, meaning they cannot pass the virus on to others. Yet, many still see HIV as something that only affects certain groups, when in reality, anyone can be affected. As Prince Harry put it: “Stigma thrives on silence.” By speaking out, sharing stories, and making HIV visible in unexpected spaces, like the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Tackle HIV is helping to break this silence.

A Garden With A Message

The garden makes a powerful statement. Every element has been designed to reflect the journey of those living with HIV and the progress made over the decades. The design features pathways that represent individual journeys and the freedom made possible by modern treatments. A bridge crossing over water signifies the leap of faith required to challenge stigma, while hexagonal elements echo the molecular structure of HIV medication, highlighting scientific advancements. Red ribbons, a universal emblem of HIV awareness, are woven throughout the space, complementing sculptures that honour the past. Enclosed by living walls and hedging, the garden creates a sanctuary, fostering reflection and meaningful conversation. By placing these themes at an event attended by thousands and widely covered in the media, the garden ensures that discussions about HIV reach beyond just those who consider themselves at risk.

Wales Leading The Way

Wales has long led the way in HIV awareness and action, becoming the first UK nation to commit to ending new cases by 2030. To achieve this, the Welsh Government’s 2023 HIV Action Plan expands screening with a free online home testing service, increases access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), ensures 97% of those on treatment maintain an undetectable viral load, tackles stigma through public awareness, and invests in innovative projects for HIV prevention and care. Organisations like Terrence Higgins Trust Cymru also play a vital role in this mission, providing support, education, and advocacy. But achieving the goal of zero new transmissions by 2030 requires everyone to play their part.

This Matters To Everyone

HIV is not just a concern for some communities. Most people live in blissful ignorance about HIV because they don’t see themselves as at risk. But if everyone, regardless of background, were to get tested, it would help normalise testing and reduce the stigma that prevents those who need it most from coming forward.

The Tackle HIV garden is a step in bringing this conversation into the mainstream. It challenges, replaces fear with knowledge, and reminds us that HIV is not just a medical condition, but a story of resilience, progress, and hope. The garden is not just about planting flowers, but planting the seeds of change. And in a world where stigma still holds too many people back, that change cannot come soon enough.