Raising Awareness on Hepatitis C: An Important Visit from The Hepatitis Trust

At Quays Housing, we are committed to providing quality temporary accommodation for individuals at risk of homelessness across the UK. Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting The Hepatitis Trust and the NHS University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust at our Brighton scheme and The Hepatitis Trust in association with New Vision in our Bradford scheme. They visited to offer free testing and share vital information about the risks of Hepatitis C (Hep C) with both our residents and the Quays team. This initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the health and well-being of those we support.

Understanding Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. It is caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and can lead to both acute and chronic liver diseases. The virus is usually spread through blood-to-blood contact, often through sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment used to prepare and inject drugs. It can also be transmitted through unregulated tattoos, piercings, and, less commonly, through sexual contact.

The symptoms of Hepatitis C can be mild and non-specific, including fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, which means that many people may be unaware they are infected. Chronic Hepatitis C can lead to serious liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death if left untreated. However, with early detection and treatment, Hepatitis C can often be cured.

Hepatitis C and Homelessness

There is a significant link between Hepatitis C and homelessness. People experiencing homelessness are at a higher risk of contracting Hepatitis C due to several factors:

1. Intravenous Drug Use: A higher prevalence of intravenous drug use among the homeless population increases the risk of HCV infection. Sharing needles and other injecting equipment is a common transmission route.
2. Lack of Access to Healthcare: Homeless individuals often face barriers to accessing healthcare services, including regular medical check-ups and treatments. This can delay the diagnosis and treatment of Hepatitis C, leading to a higher chance of chronic infection.
3. Poor Living Conditions: Unsanitary living conditions and limited access to clean facilities can contribute to the spread of infections, including Hepatitis C.
4. Mental Health Issues: The co-occurrence of mental health issues and substance abuse among homeless individuals can exacerbate the risk of Hepatitis C infection.
5. Lack of Permanent Address: A lack of a permanent address creates a vicious cycle where homeless individuals cannot receive important correspondence from healthcare providers or maintain regular appointments, hindering their ability to get timely treatment. Various organisations, such as HSBC, have aimed to break this cycle by offering guarantors to sign on behalf of a person, helping them access essential services and support.

The Hepatitis Trust: Making a Difference

The Hepatitis Trust is dedicated to eliminating Hepatitis C in the UK by increasing awareness, providing support to those affected, and facilitating access to testing and treatment. Their collaboration with NHS University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, a leading healthcare provider, ensures that comprehensive care and cutting-edge treatments are available to those in need.

“Awareness and early detection are key to fighting Hepatitis C. It’s not just about the treatment; it’s about the support and education provided to those at risk. Initiatives like these are crucial.”

Michelle Bolton, Managing Director at Quays Housing

Our Commitment to Health and Well-being

At Quays Housing, we understand the importance of addressing both the housing and health needs of our residents. By partnering with The Hepatitis Trust and NHS University Hospitals Sussex, we aim to offer comprehensive support that goes beyond providing temporary accommodation. The recent visit from our partner charities is a testament to this commitment. By offering free Hepatitis C testing and information sessions, we are taking proactive steps to safeguard the health of our residents and staff.

 “Testing for Hepatitis C was incredibly straightforward – just like a COVID test. It’s crucial that we make these services easily accessible to ensure the health and safety of our residents We encourage all residents to take advantage of such opportunities and to seek medical advice if they believe they may be at risk. Together, we can work towards a healthier future for everyone in our community.”

Rosa Hall, Scheme Manager in Quays Brighton

“We connect with services that our residents can utilise to support their efforts in rebuilding their lives. New Vision Bradford are crucial partners for Quays Housing in Bradford, and we are very grateful to them and the Hepatitis C Trust for generously sharing information and testing staff and tenants. Such services are essential in supporting those at threat of homelessness and the wider community in understanding our health needs.”

Bradford Scheme Leader, Stacey Mills

For more information about Hepatitis C and the support available, please do not hesitate to contact us or visit reputable health websites such as the NHS, The Hepatitis Trust or New Vision Bradford

Join Us in Making a Difference

We are grateful to The Hepatitis Trust, NHS University Hospitals Sussex and New Vision in Bradford for their invaluable support and look forward to continuing our collaboration to improve the lives of those at risk of homelessness. If you would like to support Quays Housing and our initiatives, please consider donating or volunteering with us. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of many.

Stay tuned for more updates on our efforts and initiatives to support our community.

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