Sandwell’s drug and alcohol provider has announced that it has achieved the remarkable milestone of micro-elimination in its efforts to combat hepatitis C.
Led by Cranstoun, the drug and alcohol service provider in the borough, this achievement highlights the commitment and dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of people affected by substance use and marks a significant victory in the national effort to eliminate hepatitis C as a public health concern.
Hepatitis C is an infection of the liver which continues to attack the organ over time and, if left untreated can lead to life-threatening damage including liver cancer or failure. Symptoms often don’t show until it’s too late.
It was estimated in 2019 that around 118,000 people in the UK had chronic hepatitis C. It can be spread by coming into contact with the blood of someone who is infected.
Cranstoun support over 2,000 people across the Sandwell borough each year with managing their substance use.
Micro-elimination is a targeted strategy focused on reducing hepatitis C prevalence within specific groups. Success in these areas, as recognised by the NHS, has meant that the virus has been ‘micro-eliminated’ in the borough.
The results of a rigorous regime of testing of people coming into the service has allowed the charity to treat and eliminate hepatitis C to reach this high standard.
Achieving these targets demonstrates Cranstoun’s commitment to delivering exceptional care and its proactive approach to addressing the needs of those at risk of blood-borne viruses, particularly hepatitis C, among people who inject drugs.
Lin O’Brien, Non-Medical Prescriber at Cranstoun Sandwell, said: ‘This is an enormous achievement not only for Sandwell and Cranstoun, but for the people who use our services. In the past two years we have supported 80 people by identifying their positive Heptatitis C virus and treating it before it became liver cancer – not to mention the others that it could have been transmitted to and the emotional pain and hurt that has been averted. Testing is now woven into the fabric of the day to day work.
‘This achievement is testament to the respect and commitment of all the staff at Cranstoun Sandwell, who have been dedicated to achieving micro-elimination for the health of the people who use our services, to enable them to live healthier, longer, safer lives.’
Liann Brookes-Smith, Director of Public Health for Sandwell said: ‘Achieving hepatitis C micro-elimination among people who use drugs in Sandwell is a major public health victory for our community. This reflects our tailored, local approach – ensuring those most affected have access to vital testing, harm reduction services, and life-saving treatments right here in Sandwell.
‘By working closely with local partners, addressing stigma, and making care accessible, we’ve not only transformed individual lives but taken a huge step towards eliminating hepatitis C across the borough.’
Councillor Jackie Taylor, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Wellbeing said: ‘This success is about more than just numbers – it’s about saving lives, reducing harm, and making sure those most at risk get the support they need. Sandwell is leading the way in public health for those with drug or alcohol support needs, and this milestone proves that with the right focus, we can make a real difference.’
The charity has worked closely with Sandwell Council, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) and local hospitals to treat and track the progress towards the goal of micro-elimination.
Cranstoun’s achievement sets a benchmark for other service providers and underscores the effectiveness of targeted intervention strategies. Through collaborative partnerships, community engagement, and an unwavering commitment to health equity.
The work will continue across the borough to eradicate hepatitis C entirely by 2030, to meet the UK Government’s and World Health Organization’s targets.
This blog was originally published by Cranstoun. You can read the original post here.
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