AN EDINBURGH bar has announced the return of its fundraiser for Scotland’s HIV charity, as World AIDS Day approaches fast.
The Regent on Montrose Terrace, the capital’s LGBT+ real ale pub, announced its latest initiative for Waverley Care on social media.
It will donate all proceeds from one of its cask ales to the charity, which supports people in Scotland living with, or at risk of, HIV or Hepatitis C.
The organisation has previously praised the pub, alongside other LGBT+ bars in the city, for its efforts in providing information about testing, treatment and support.
It previously raised over £1,000 on World Aids Day 2021, from a combination of sales and staff donating tips.
A contactless donation point was installed in the bar in 2022, allowing punters to make a quick donation with their card.
It also supported Edinburgh Pride this year, launching its own IPA to mark the occasion, with proceeds going towards funding the event.
In support of World AIDS Day, all takings from pints of cask ale Timothy Taylor’s Landlord will go towards the cause.
Casks have been generously donated by Timothy Taylor’s and operating firm Punch Pubs, with The Regent itself chipping in another.
The sale of the charity ale will continue until all three casks have been sold, with one already gone.
The pub’s post to social media reads: “As we approach World AIDS Day on December 1st, The Regent is running a fundraiser for Waverley Care – Scotland’s HIV and Hepatitis C Charity.
“We will donate all proceeds from the sale of our very popular cask ale ‘Timothy Taylor’s Landlord’ to Waverley Care.
“Timothy Taylor’s have kindly donated us a free cask, Punch Pubs have done the same and we have added a third.
“On World AIDS Day, our thoughts will be with those affected by HIV. We shall also be thinking fondly of those who are no longer with us.”
Waverley Care was founded in 1989 to provide palliative care for AIDS but has since shifted its focus to preventative care and working with all blood borne viruses.
It is thankful for its strong relationships with external organisations which have provided support over the years, which includes several Edinburgh LGBT+ bars and venues.
Speaking today, John McKellar, national fundraising manager at Waverley Care, said: “Waverley Care would like to thank The Regent and Timothy Taylor’s for their incredible support and generosity during their World AIDS Day fundraiser.
“The proceeds from this event will make a real difference in the lives of people living with and at risk of HIV across Scotland.
“Your contribution helps us continue vital services like our Peer Support programme, which connects individuals with others with lived experience, providing essential guidance, understanding, and a sense of community during challenging times.
“This year’s World AIDS Day theme, Putting People First, underscores the importance of ensuring everyone feels supported, valued, and understood in their communities.
“With your help, we are one step closer to breaking down stigma and building a more inclusive society.
Alan Nicholls, the landlord of The Regent, said: “Waverley Care, with the associated hospice Milestone House, has been close to my heart for many years.
“I lived through the initial AIDS epidemic in the 80s and 90s and saw countless friends and aquaintances suffer terrible ends to their lives.
“Fortunately HIV is now treatable, though a positive diagnosis can still be devastating.
“There is also a lot of stigma surrounding HIV. Waverley Care are at the forefront of support and education.”
