Martyn Butler co-founded the Terrence Higgins Trust
Martyn Butler, a relentless advocate who revolutionized support for people living with HIV, has passed away at the age of 71. His death marks the end of a five-decade journey of activism that began during the height of the public health crisis in the early 1980s.
In 1982, following the passing of his close friend Terrence Higgins—the first named individual in the country to die from AIDS-related complications—Butler co-founded the Terrence Higgins Trust alongside Rupert Whitaker. In an era characterized by widespread misinformation, Butler took the unprecedented step of using his private home telephone number to establish the first national AIDS helpline in 1983.
His legacy is defined by several key achievements:
Public Awareness: He dedicated himself to informing the public and the LGBTQ+ community about HIV at a time when resources were virtually non-existent.
Official Recognition: In 2022, he was appointed an OBE by the late monarch for his lifelong dedication to charity and equality.
Inspiration to Others: Beyond his health advocacy, Butler was a source of inspiration for the deaf community and a tireless campaigner for LGBTQ+ rights.
Both Rupert Whitaker and Martyn Butler received OBEs for their work in helping research into HIV
Current leaders of the Trust describe Butler as a "trailblazer" whose determination and spirit were foundational to the organization’s existence. Richard Angell, the Trust's chief executive, noted that Butler’s kindness and refusal to "take no for an answer" saved countless lives. His family expressed profound pride in his achievements, noting that while his sudden loss is heartbreaking, his impact remains indelible.
European Editorial Office: John