Investing in People
Empowering People Living with HIV
The Porticus grant has enabled CAPS to maintain two former volunteers in salaried positions.
CAPS’ Director Vincent Manning PhD is employed on a part-time basis. He is a founder member of the PositiveFaith ministry and a founding member of The Community of the Passion.
He acted as CAPS Chairperson in a voluntary capacity from 2008 – 2020.
Previously Porticus supported him to complete PhD research at St. Marys University on HIV and Catholic faith. He is recognised as the leading expert on matters relating to Christian faith and HIV in this country.
PHOTO: Root & Branch Conference – Bristol.
Sponsored by CAPS Abigail Chakanyuka achieved Level III Counselling Qualifications which she applies in her work as our full-time Pastoral Support Worker.
A former volunteer for CAPS Abigail facilitates peer support group meetings in London and supports individual PLWH in complex situations to find the help they need.
Abigail also represents CAPS at HIV sector events. She is particularly passionate about addressing the inequalities that Black PLWH face in the NHS.
PHOTO. Abigail, centre in the white top, raises awareness of HIV at a CSAN (CARITAS) Parliamentary reception. Feb. 2025.
Two more examples will suffice to illustrate how CAPS members make a positive impact in the Church and wider society.
1 - CAPS’ Trustee Tyrone Allee (back row second from left) received an award from the Metropolitan Police Commissioner in 2024.
The award reads: “Celebrating an individual who has actively worked to empower and uplift the community, striving for positive change...”
As well as his role as a Trustee, Tyrone is tireless in supporting and encouraging others in the PositiveFaith Community.
2 - Adela first atended a PositiveFaith retreat in 2009, whilst seeking asylum in the UK. Inspired, Adela started CAPS’ PositiveFaith Manchester group which continues still.
This experience led to employment with the George House Trust (GHT) Charity. She was honoured with the Women & Health Award by Manchester City Council.
Her commendation includes: “For front-line work with PLWH...A Trustee of CAPS...a network of Christians...dedicated to HIV prevention & support...& founder of PositiveFaith Manchester...This award celebrates pioneering women who have made remarkable contributions to the city.”
Photo: Adela & The GHT Team Winners of the prestigious 2025 GSK / Kings Fund IMPACT Award.
“The most vulnerable are not only part of the problem. If they were empowered enough by us, they would be-come the solution.” (LeClerq, 2010. Blessed Are the Vulnerable: Reaching Out To Those With AIDS.)
Our volunteers are our most precious resource. These examples illustrate the ways in which Porticus funding has contributed to the empowerment of our members.
This grant has been an investment in the PLWH whom CAPS seeks to serve. Our approach to achieving social change begins with our willingness to empower Christian PLWH to be missionaries in the HIV sector & society and witnesses to faith in the Church.
