CARE is committed to providing a supportive work place for all its employees, regardless of their HIV status. In order to accomplish this, CARE aims to foster a work environment of openness, compassion and understanding, non-discrimination and fear. This commitment is based upon the following principles -:

• CARE will not discriminate against anyone in its employment policies and practices. CARE recognises the fact that discrimination and stigmatization of people living with HIV/AIDS slows down efforts aimed at preventing the spread of HIV.

• CARE recognises that an employee with HIV or any other life-threatening illness may wish to continue in work for as long as possible. So, CARE will support and make reasonable accommodation for the employee who is medically fit to perform his or her job.

• CARE will provide employees with risk reduction and prevention information and access to appropriate prevention methods, and will actively seek to reduce and address the stigma associated with HIV and AIDS by addressing knowledge and attitude levels among staff and working partners.

• CARE does not and will not require HIV screening as part of pre-employment or general workplace physical examinations.

• CARE will protect the confidentiality and privacy of all staff with respect to HIV and AIDS. Anyone who cares and provides support for infected and affected employees should be able to do so openly and willingly, and with support from those around them.

• With women at greater risk of infection than men, and carrying a great care burden, special consideration will be provided for prevention and impact-mitigation services that target women.

• Subject to financial and medical feasibility, CARE will seek to provide access to care and support services for staff and their families.

The policy document was prepared in cognisance of the provisions of the labour laws of Lesotho and South Africa, the Human Resources Manual, the ILO Code of Best Practice on HIV/AIDS and the world of work and the SADC Code of Practice on HIV/AIDS and Employment.