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Abstract
Internet based outreach strategies targeting marginalised groups on the basis of HIV- and STI prevention among (male) sex workers
K. Prins-Schiffer1, E. Schatz1, P. Vriens2, Correlation Expert Group: Internet
Issues:
Online venues are becoming a preferred location for hard to reach groups. Therefore, an increasing number of service providers tries to approach their target group directly through the internet. However, many services seem to lack financial resources as well as knowledge, which enable them to contact their target group appropriate. A few agencies have already started Internet outreach among sex workers, among gay men and among young people in specific risk situations. Some initiatives seem to have good results. However, evidence based data and information is necessary, if we want to develop effective and comprehensive intervention and (HIV) prevention strategies.
Description:
The Correlation Network is a European Network of grassroot professionals, service providers and interest groups from all over Europe. Correlation intents to improve the access to social and medical services for marginalised groups by linking research, policy and implementation activities. One of the expert groups of Correlation is focusing on Internet based outtreach strategies among marginalised groups. The Internet group will collect and map data, develop guidelines and produce a multilingual training CD-ROM with training, instructions and open source software for service providers, which are planning to start outreach and prevention activities through the Internet.
Lessons learned:
Internet based outreach and (HIV) prevention activities are not automatically effective and feasible for all target groups. Effectiveness of interventions strongly depends on the access to and the purpose (e.g. selling sex) of Internet among the targetgroup.
Recommendations:
Services providers need to be trained, in order to know which opportunities Internet is offering and how Internet can be used for their specific target group. They should know how to build a website, how to communicate, how to collect data and information and how to transfer (HIV prevention) messages through the internet. Regular exchange through an Internet forum (www.correlation-net.org) might support this process.
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
MOPE0611
Suggested Citation
"K.Prins-Schiffer, et al.
Internet based outreach strategies targeting marginalised groups on the basis of HIV- and STI prevention among (male) sex workers.
:
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
MOPE0611"
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