A SOUTHEND councillor has defended the borough's record of treating people with HIV in the wake of a damning nationwide report.

The Aids Funders Forum says complacency about HIV is leading to a "chaotic" and fragmented system for delivering crucial support services for people with the condition.

It also claims the local authorities and primary care trusts have failed to keep up with dramatic changes in the epidemic.

But Conservative councillor Mark Flewitt, who has special responsibility for dealing with the problem in the borough, said the report did not reflect the good service available to HIV patients locally.

Southend has an above average proportion of HIV sufferers, largely due to its African population.

Mr Flewitt said: "I don't agree with the dramatic approach in this report, certainly not for Southend, although I can't comment for the rest of the country.

"We must continue to push the message that while there are drugs that are now keeping people alive longer, the most important thing is to protect against catching HIV in the first place.

"If I hear of anyone not getting the proper treatment, I will personally investigate it and try to get to the bottom of the problem."

The findings of the report were based on an online survey of more than 300 trusts and providers of HIV services and follow-up telephone interviews conducted last year.

Lord Smith of Finsbury, the former Cabinet minister who is HIV-positive, said: "This report reveals there are too many people living with HIV who are simply not getting access to the services they need.

"This could have grave consequences for their health and wellbeing.

"We need to remind everyone - NHS, commissioners, and local authorities alike - the needs of all those affected by HIV, from all communities, have to be addressed."