Martyn Butler, a co-founder of the Terrence Higgins Trust, a leading organization in the fight against HIV and AIDS, has died at the age of 71. His death, which occurred suddenly over the weekend of , marks the loss of a pivotal figure in the UK’s response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic and a dedicated champion for LGBTQ+ rights.
Butler’s commitment to the cause stemmed from a deeply personal tragedy: the death of his close friend, Terrence Higgins, who in 1982 became the first named person in the United Kingdom to die from an AIDS-related illness. Following Higgins’ death, Butler, alongside Higgins’ boyfriend Rupert Whitaker, established the Terrence Higgins Trust in . The organization quickly became a vital resource for information, support, and advocacy during a time of widespread fear and misinformation surrounding the disease.
In the early 1980s, understanding of HIV and AIDS was limited, and societal stigma was rampant. Butler recognized the urgent need to educate the public, particularly the gay community, about the risks and prevention of HIV transmission. He famously utilized his home phone number to establish the first AIDS helpline, providing a crucial lifeline for those seeking information and support. This direct, personal approach underscored the Trust’s commitment to compassionate care and accessibility.
The impact of the Terrence Higgins Trust extends far beyond providing immediate support. The organization played a critical role in shaping public health policy and challenging discriminatory attitudes towards people living with HIV. Butler’s advocacy helped to humanize the epidemic, shifting the narrative from one of fear and blame to one of understanding and compassion. Gareth Thomas, British Lions captain and a patron of the trust, described Butler as a “trailblazer,” adding that he would not forget his smile. Thomas also noted that Butler’s founding of the Trust brought a “distinctly Welsh feel” to the organization, honoring the memory of his fellow Welshman, Terrence Higgins.
Butler’s dedication spanned five decades, and his contributions were formally recognized in with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) awarded by Queen Elizabeth II. This honor acknowledged his tireless efforts in raising awareness, providing support, and advocating for the rights of those affected by HIV and AIDS. He also received the Rainbow Honours Lifetime Achievement Award and an Attitude Pride Award for his work as an LGBTQ+ hero.
Born in Newport, Wales, Butler moved to London in the 1970s, where he pursued a career in advertising, cinema, and entertainment. It was while working at Heaven nightclub that he met Terrence Higgins, forging a friendship that would ultimately inspire a legacy of compassion and advocacy. His background in the entertainment industry likely contributed to his ability to connect with diverse communities and effectively communicate complex information.
Guy Hewett, Butler’s brother, expressed the family’s profound grief, stating, “We are heartbroken to lose him so suddenly but full of pride for all he achieved.” Hewett emphasized Butler’s sense of duty to inform the public about HIV and AIDS, particularly during the early years of the epidemic when information was scarce. He added, “Grief is the terrible price of love, but we know his legacy lives on.”
The death of Martyn Butler represents a significant loss for the HIV/AIDS community and the LGBTQ+ rights movement. His unwavering commitment to fighting stigma, promoting education, and providing support has left an indelible mark on the UK’s response to the epidemic. The Terrence Higgins Trust, a testament to his vision and dedication, continues to provide vital services to those living with and affected by HIV, ensuring that his legacy of compassion and advocacy endures.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting paid tribute to Butler, calling him a ‘tenacious campaigner’ for those living with HIV and Aids. ‘He had both the foresight to set up Terrence Higgins Trust and the insight to name it after his friend to humanise the Aids epidemic, which has shaped the UK’s response to HIV,’ he said.
