About the Event
Join us on Thursday, 9 October at Milestone House for a special farewell gathering and exhibition celebrating the legacy of the UK’s first purpose-built AIDS hospice.
We’d love you to be part of this rare opportunity to step inside the building, explore its history, and reflect on the profound impact it has had on so many lives over the past three decades.
A Legacy of Care and Compassion
For over 30 years, Milestone House has been a place of compassion, dignity, and hope. Opened in the early days of the HIV epidemic, it welcomed many people through its doors, offering care when it was needed most and creating a community that will never be forgotten.
Now, thanks to advances in HIV treatment, residential HIV care is no longer needed. Waverley Care will be stepping away from managing Milestone House to focus on outreach and HIV support in the community. The building will return to NHS Lothian, who own the land.
Before we hand over the keys, we’re inviting friends, supporters, and members of the community to help us celebrate the incredible legacy of this special place.
What’s On
Archive exhibition – including rarely-seen photographs from the Milestone’s opening and a visit from Princess Diana.
Speakers – hear from Grant Sugden, Chief Executive at Waverley Care and others who will share personal reflections on Milestone’s history and its impact.
Entertainment – live performances in the spirit of Milestone’s warm community.
Memory Tree – contribute your thoughts, stories, or memories to this collaborative art piece, which will serve as a lasting tribute to all who have been part of Milestone’s journey.
Guests will also enjoy tea, coffee, and light refreshments while reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones.
Getting here
Please note that while free onsite parking is available, spaces are limited. Milestone House is a short walk from Oxgangs Road North, served by the number 10, 27, and 45 buses.
Book Your Free Ticket
This event is free but ticketed due to limited capacity, please reserve your place via the "Tickets" button.
If you can no longer attend, please cancel your ticket through Eventbrite or email lily.gibson@waverleycare.org so we can offer your place to someone else.
We hope you can join us to honour the past, reflect on the present, and look forward to the future of HIV care together.
