Leicestershire AIDS Support Services

The Background

LASS is an independent voluntary organisation that was set up in 1987 to provide a range of services for people in the City of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland who are affected by HIV/AIDS.

They work to prevent the spread of HIV and to promote positive sexual health through education, training and community initiatives. By working together with other agencies, they play a major part in developing a co-ordinated response to the challenges of HIV.

They offer bespoke, tailored and personalised support for people newly diagnosed with HIV. As each person’s need is unique, a face to face discussion is held so they can support people on a direct one to one basis using their knowledge of HIV and their knowledge of local support services.

The Challenge

LASS had a fragmented communications strategy, using a variety of providers for their various products and services; one for calls and lines, one for broadband and another for mobile phones.

An issue with their broadband connection caused the LASS team to rethink their supply chain; the overriding feeling that having one single supplier to manage all communications would be preferable.

Tom Robson, resources and communication coordinator, said: “Our work is of a very sensitive nature, so it is vital that all lines of communication are available to the people who come to us for advice and support at all times.

“Dealing with different providers made it difficult to know who to ask for advice should we have any issues and we knew there must been an easier, more workable solution available to us.”

The Solution

One of LASS’s suppliers was Elite, who provided the charity with its mobile phones.

Tom said: “When we looked our existing suppliers side by side, Elitetele.com stood out at the provider which best looked after our needs.

“We felt secure in the knowledge that, should we have an issue, we would speak to one person and not be passed from pillar to post. It ensures speedy resolution of any faults and gives us peace of mind knowing that they truly do have our best interests at heart.”

The Result

The relationship between LASS and Elite is going strong and constant contact, both over the phone and in person, enables any current issues or concerns to be ironed out straight away; all of which makes for a slick and secure service for those looking for support from LASS.