World AIDS Day - the international day of action on HIV and AIDS which takes place every year on 1 December.

This year in the UK, World AIDS Day is about wearing the Red Ribbon, as a sign of support for people living with HIV and a symbol of hope for the future.

World AIDS Day is about people getting the facts about HIV and AIDS. It's a day for people to get involved and there are many ways in which you can do so.

No matter how you decide to mark the day, you can help create a more AIDS Aware society in which everyone takes action, so please make sure you show off your Red Ribbon on 1 December!

In the run up to World AIDS Day, you will be able to get a Red Ribbon from outlets of The Carphone Warehouse across the UK and at Fire Stations in London in return for a donation to NAT. Red Ribbons will also be available across the country at World AIDS Day events and activities.

The Red Ribbon is the international symbol of AIDS awareness; a sign of support for those living with HIV, a symbol of hope for the future and a reminder to us all of the constant need to keep up the fight against HIV and AIDS. By wearing it, you're showing your support for over 53,000 people in the UK and 40 million people across the world living with HIV and AIDS. Remember there is still no cure.

The Red Ribbon came into being in 1991 as a small idea of a group of artists called Visual AIDS, in New York. Over 70,000 Freddie Mercury fans wore a Red Ribbon to a tribute concert at Wembley Stadium in April 1992.

Diana, Princess of Wales wore one for the first time at NAT's Concert of Hope on World AIDS Day in 1993. Now, it is recognised the world over as the international symbol of AIDS awareness.

If you would like to get hold of your own Red Ribbon you can find your nearest outlet here and you can also download a Virtual Red Ribbon from this site to wear on your website or in your email signature.