A record number of people living in east London are seeking help from an HIV charity, it has been revealed.

In the first three months of 2015, 500 people contacted charity Positive East.

The charity works extensively in Waltham Forest due to the high number of people living with HIV in the borough.

The charity’s director, Mark Santos, said the spike in callers is welcomed by the charity, which hopes people can begin to be more open about the disease.

He said: “The number of people living with HIV in East London is higher than it has ever been and so the demand for our services has never been higher.

“There is still a lot of stigma surrounding the condition and many people who phone us wouldn’t access more mainstream services like Citizens Advice or their local council.”

Due to the surge in callers, the charity has decided to extend its helpline hours.

The Advice Line can be used by anyone who needs help with questions from where to get a test to questions about benefits and financial support when living with the disease.

From May 26 people with HIV can call the Advice Line (020 7791 2855) on Mondays and Fridays between 10am and 4pm and until 7pm from Tuesday to Thursday.

The lines are also manned on a Saturday between 11am and 3pm.

For more information contact Positive East.