Call for action over tattoo parlours

Tattoo parlours which refuse to serve people with HIV should have their licences revoked, Kezia Dugdale has urged.

The Labour MS Pc onde mn ed reports that some Hiv-positive people who disclose their condition at tattoo studios have been turned away as she called on the Scottish Government to support demands to close such businesses down for breaking the law. She made the plea to public health minister Jo e Fitzpatrick in the Scottish Parliament yesterday.

The minister responded: “This should not be happening in Scotland and I think we need to raise awareness and as part of that tackle stigma.

“Like the member [Ms Dugdale], I am concerned to hear of the difficulties that some Hiv-positive people are experiencing in getting a tattoo.

“I’m clear that there is absolutely no place for HIV stigma in today’s Scotland.

“The standard infection control procedures that all tattoo studios should have in place provide protection against blood-borne viruses, including HIV .” Ms Dug dale has lodged a motion in Parliament calling for an end to HIV discrimination in tattoo studios.

She said: “HIV is still the most stigmatised health condition in Scotland and barriers to services like tattooing only perpetuate the stigma, which often leads to shame, isolation and embarrassment for people living with HIV.”