On Wednesday 15 June, a community event was held at Homestead Medical Centre in Wakefield, offering a valuable opportunity for the ODN team Ngozi, Lizzie and Sheila to deliver focused liver health outreach alongside a range of partner services.
While Smoke Free, Turning Point’s Mental Health Team, the Carers Support Team, the NHS App Team, and others contributed to the wider wellbeing offer, the ODN team ensured that viral hepatitis and liver health awareness remained a central priority throughout the day.
The team engaged directly with attendees, providing clear and accessible information about viral hepatitis, the importance of early testing, and the practical steps people can take to protect their liver health. They directed individuals to the ODN website, explained how to order an at‑home hepatitis testing kit, and distributed business cards to promote the free liver health checks listed on the ODN events page.
Alongside this, they raised awareness of Hepatitis C by highlighting risk factors, treatment pathways, and the availability of community testing. Their presence reinforced the message that Hepatitis C is treatable and curable, while their supportive conversations helped reduce uncertainty around testing and empowered people to take proactive steps in managing their liver health.
Following the success of the session, the ODN team has been invited back to Homestead Medical Centre to deliver on‑site Hepatitis testing and Fibroscans at future events. This invitation reflects both the impact of their engagement and the growing recognition of the value of community‑based liver health services.
Through their work at Homestead Medical Centre, Lizzie, Sheila, and Ngozi strengthened partnerships, increased awareness, and provided practical tools for better liver health, making the event a meaningful step forward in improving outcomes across the community.