71 | Elly Mortimer: Three Decades in Harm Reduction – Hep C, Learning, Listening & Leading

Elly returns for her third appearance on Believe in People to share insight from over 30 years working in harm reduction, with a focus on eliminating Hepatitis C.

She explains how treatment has progressed from year-long courses with severe side effects to today’s short-course tablets that are 96 percent effective. Elly draws on decades of professional experience, making this an essential listen for anyone interested in how public health services respond to complex and evolving challenges.

The discussion covers how Hepatitis C affects a broader population than often assumed. While commonly linked to injecting drug use, the virus also impacts people who have had tattoos abroad, unregulated cosmetic procedures or shared personal care items. Elly provides clear information about risk factors, symptoms and the long-term damage the virus can cause, especially when it remains undiagnosed for years.

This episode also highlights the importance of completing treatment and the barriers people face in doing so. Elly discusses the role of co-production between service users and commissioners in improving access and outcomes. Whether you work in healthcare, study public health or want to understand one of the most significant viral risks in the UK today, this conversation offers clarity, depth and practical advice.

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