November marked Men’s Health Awareness Month, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about health issues affecting men and highlighting the importance of early detection, prevention, and treatment. This year’s efforts included a specific focus on hepatitis C virus (HCV) a condition that can lead to severe complications if left untreated and general liver health.
Simon Taylor, an advocate for men’s health on the operational delivery network (ODN) team, participated in three events throughout the month, helping to shed light on HCV awareness and prevention.
The Men’s Health Unlocked South Leeds International Men’s Day (IMD) Event was held on 15 November 2024 at the Involve Learning Centre, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, Leeds. Simon joined the initiative at the centre and provided information about the national hepatitis C self-test portal and discussed general liver health. He also promoted the Community Liver Health Checks project, currently running in West Yorkshire where the ODN’s mobile clinic vehicle goes out into local communities and offers a fibroscan to the members of the public who are concerned about their liver health.
The RETHINK#LEEDSMEN event which took place on 21 November 2024 in Leeds Kirkgate Market was a bustling venue with lots of people attending, enabling Simon to engage with a diverse audience and continue the conversation about hepatitis C awareness and liver health. Simon was able to highlight the importance of self-testing for hepatitis C and the availability of community-based health resources.
In Bradford, Simon attended the International Men’s Day event held at the Laisterdyke Hub on 27 November 2024. There was a great turnout by the public at the event with notable attendees including the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Beverley Mullaney, and Councillor Rizwana Jamil of the Bowling and Barkerend Ward in Bradford. At this event Simon was supported by peers from The Hepatitis C Trust who raised the awareness of Hepatitis C and offered hepatitis C testing on the day at the event.
At all the events attended we were able to raise awareness of hepatitis C and liver health engaging people in the heart of the community.
As we reflect on Men’s Health Awareness Month, the lessons we have learned, and connections made serve as a foundation for ongoing engagement with local communities. Let’s ensure that the conversations started in November continue, fostering a community where men feel supported in prioritising their health.
