Fight Against HIV, TB, and Hepatitis
Wednesday 4 December 2024
Mission Zero Conference Unites Calderdale in the Fight Against HIV, TB, and Hepatitis
The Mission Zero Conference in Hebden Bridge Town Hall (on Friday 29 November) brought together healthcare providers, public health agencies, community organisations, and local leaders to focus on a shared goal: ending new transmissions of HIV, TB, and viral hepatitis in Calderdale by 2030.
The event, and the wider Mission Zero Calderdale project, highlight the importance of prevention, testing, treatment, and support services in achieving this ambitious target.
The day was facilitated by Ben Whalley, Chair of The Brunswick Centre, and started with opening address by Deborah Harkins, Calderdale Council's Director of Public Health. Attendees heard from key figures such as Ian Green OBE, Chair of Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, and Rachel Halford, CEO of The Hepatitis C Trust. A panel, hosted by John McKernaghan, Chief Officer at the Brunswick Centre, included representatives and service users from the Hepatitis C Trust, the TB service, and The Brunswick Centre.
Throughout the conference local, regional, and national figures shared valuable insights and personal experiences. Dr Lindsay Short from Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust spoke about the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Sue Hunter from the Terrence Higgins Trust's Positive Voices programme shared their powerful story, and the event concluded with a motivating talk from LGBTQ+ and human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell.
Discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities in tackling infectious diseases, emphasising the need to reduce stigma and ensure accessible care.
Mission Zero is a partnership effort, led by The Brunswick Centre, working with local healthcare providers, public health agencies, and community organisations to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities across Calderdale. The initiative encourages everyone to take control of their health by getting tested and knowing their status for HIV, TB, and viral hepatitis. With effective treatments available, accessing care and support services is crucial to preventing further transmissions and reducing preventable deaths. Equally important is the ongoing effort to eliminate the stigma and discrimination often associated with these conditions, ensuring that those affected feel supported and empowered.
Deborah Harkins, Calderdale Council's Director of Public Health, remarked, "It's fantastic to see Calderdale bringing together national experts, local leaders, and community voices to tackle such important health issues. This collaboration is a positive step forward, and I'm proud to see Calderdale leading the way towards ending HIV, TB, and hepatitis transmissions by 2030."
John McKernaghan, Chief Officer at the Brunswick Centre, reflected on the event, "By bringing together expertise, personal stories, and community action, the Mission Zero Conference and the wider initiative has laid the groundwork for a collaborative approach to achieving these ambitious goals. By focusing on prevention, testing, and treatment, we can eliminate new cases and tackle stigma head-on."