The Patient Experience Team at UHMBT, in collaboration with the Hepatitis C Trust and Lancashire & South Cumbria Operational Delivery Networks (ODN), recently attended Veterans’ Coffee Mornings at both Mazuma Stadium in Morecambe and One Vision, Stricklandgate House, Kendal. The event provided a valuable opportunity to engage with local veterans, share important health information, and raise awareness about Hepatitis C - a condition that remains underdiagnosed but is now curable. With modern treatments, 97% of people who receive treatment for Hepatitis C make a full recovery.
During the session, representatives from the Hepatitis C Trust and Lancashire & South Cumbria ODN spoke with veterans about the risks, symptoms, and treatment options for Hepatitis C. Many attendees were surprised to learn that the virus can remain undetected for years, but thanks to advances in healthcare, it can now be successfully treated often within just eight to twelve weeks.
Veterans were encouraged to take advantage of a free, quick and painless test, resulting in 57 Veterans taking up the offer on the day.
The event fostered meaningful conversations about veterans’ health and well-being, with participants sharing personal experiences and a collective commitment to reducing the stigma around Hepatitis C. The collaboration between the Patient Experience Team, the Hepatitis C Trust, and Lancashire & South Cumbria ODN demonstrates the power of partnership in reaching communities that might otherwise be overlooked.
“It was fantastic to connect with our veteran communities in such welcoming environments,” said Sharon Allen, Patient Experience Facilitator. “By working together, we can ensure that everyone regardless of background has access to the information and care they need.”
“We are working locally towards implementing NHS England’s goal of eliminating hepatitis C in the UK ahead of the World Health Organisation (WHO) global target of 2030,” said Katie Hoggatt, Roaming Team Clinical Nurse Specialist at Lancashire & South Cumbria ODN.
Councillor Roger Dennison, Armed Forces and Veteran Champion said “A big thank you to UHMBT, Lancashire & South Cumbria ODN, and the Hepatitis C Trust for an excellent presentation highlighting the health risks of Hepatitis C. We should all be mindful of the dangers of blood-to-blood infections.”
The mornings ended on a positive note, with many veterans expressing appreciation for the team’s approachable and informative presence. Events like this highlight how community engagement and partnership can make a real difference in improving health outcomes and supporting those who have served.
To learn more about Hepatitis C or want to arrange a Hep C home test, please visit: