Ms. Masi (Mercy) Makhalemele Director: Tsa- Botsogo Consultancy 1a “Approaches to Implementation for greater impact”

Aims of this presentation 2 By the end of the presentation, you will have: an understanding of the impact of people living with HIV in the workplace a sense of some of the main issues to consider when implementing a workplace policy and programme

Moving into action: HIV/AIDS Workplace Programmes 3 Key elements of an HIV workplace programme include: An impact assessment of HIV and AIDS on your organisation; HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention programmes; HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT and TB ) programmes; Creating an open and accepting environment; Wellness programmes for employees living with HIV or AIDS; Counselling and other forms of social support for infected employees; Reasonable accommodation for employees living with HIV.

Key Principles 4 Recognition of HIV/AIDS as a workplace issue – because it threatens productivity, profitability and the welfare of employees and their families. Promoting equality and non-discrimination between individuals living with HIV and those affected, and between HIV/AIDS and other comparable health/medical conditions. Creating of a supportive environment so that employees living with HIV are able to continue working under normal conditions in their current employment for as long as they are medically fit to do so (reasonable accommodation ).

Key Principles (cont) 5 HIV/AIDS impacts disproportionately on women and this should be taken into account in the development of workplace policies and programmes. Consulting and encouraging full participation of all stakeholders are key principles which should underpin every HIV/AIDS policy and programme. HIV is preventable and the workplace needs to promote effective prevention efforts.

The application of the Law and Principles – a rights based approach. 6 [Employment Equity Act: Code of Good Practice, and ILO Guidelines] Equality and non-discrimination HIV/AIDS Testing Confidentiality Promoting a safe working environment Compensation for occupationally acquired HIV/AIDS Employee benefits Reasonable accommodation Unfair dismissals

Recommendations 7 Workshop for managers on HIV and AIDS workplace development Review current your company HIV and AIDS policy Establishment of a workplace Health committee Monitor the implementation of the programmes