Funding cuts by the Department of Health has been described as a "kick in the teeth" for people in the north living with HIV.
A Belfast-based charity supporting those with the virus has warned cuts to the department's Core Grant Funding scheme will see organisations such as theirs left in "financial limbo".
The Department of Health this week announced cost-saving measures as part of a bid to plug a funding gap of £732 million for the financial year, following the recent budget from the Northern Ireland secretary.
It has announced £100m in savings, which will include cuts to its Core Grant Funding scheme.
The scheme offers financial support of between £5,000 and £200,000 for community and voluntary groups delivering services in-line with the department's strategic and policy objectives.
However, the department said the scheme would see reductions alongside other cost-saving measures including ending Covid-related support funding for dental services.
A report last year estimated there were 1,325 people in the north living with HIV, with 76 new cases diagnosed in 2021 - a 12 per cent increase from the previous year's new cases.
The Positive Life charity has warned that funding is "vital", and has hit out at news of the impending cuts, which are due to take effect in September.
Its chief executive, Jacquie Richardson, said the decision was "another kick in the teeth to those living with HIV in Northern Ireland".
“We are extremely disappointed that once again we have been left in financial limbo for the second half of this financial year," she said.
"While we recognise that public services across the board are suffering from severe financial pressures, vital local services that support those most marginalised in our society must receive sustainable funding to enable forward planning and service development.
“Northern Ireland is the only devolved UK region that does not have a bespoke Sexual Health Strategy to promote a positive approach to sexuality and sexual relationships.
"If we want to meet ambitious targets, deliver much needed strategies and tackle HIV stigma, we need a Department that is willing to help fund our vital work.”
