01 March 2017
Enhancing support for individuals with a history of injecting drug use into hepatitis C treatment
In 2014, WithYou and The Hepatitis C Trust worked together to enhance support for individuals with a history of injecting drug use into hepatitis C treatment, motivated by the possibility of eliminating hepatitis C altogether. The partnership developed a pilot scheme in the South West of England with three key interventions: peer education workshops, a buddy scheme, and workforce development. This report summarises the evaluation of the pilot, including both qualitative and quantitative research.
The longitudinal qualitative aspect of this evaluation indicated good longer-term retention of the information provided in the peer education workshop, with near universal recall in relation to: transmission routes, the role of blood to blood contact and the availability of new treatment. Those interviewed emphasised the positive quality of the peer educators and the importance of their lived experience. Overall, the pilot's outcomes underscore the effectiveness of peer-led interventions in disseminating crucial information and promoting positive health behaviours among vulnerable populations, signalling potential for wider implementation and impact.