Since committing to improving health for asylum seekers in initial and dispersed accommodation, we have welcomed opportunities to present, teach and share our experiences with organisations, networks and individuals that are involved in the care of this population across the country. It has been incredibly rewarding to connect with system leaders and clinicians nationally and locally offering clinical and staff support, insights and teaching.
One thing that is clear, is that this is dense, involved work. It is challenging to meet the needs of a displaced population that is essentially existing at the fringes of our society and systems. Barriers to access, deep trauma, complex mental health, superdiversity and discrimination are just some of the elements that need to be considered when planning care, and addressing shortfalls. It requires bravery, courage and will to move forward and drive change.
Small steps climbeth the mountain.
In a recent conversation with a team member we reflected on the enormity of our task and the task ahead of those planning and delivering services. It is easy to give in to overwhelm. We then reflected on what we had done. Every conversation, talk, presentation, patient interaction: it all adds up. Tiny steps eventually lead to big breakthroughs.
We are delighted to have worked with teams in Lancashire, Greater Manchester, the Midlands and to have presented and advocated nationally.
Here are just some of the events we have presented and appeared at:
Community Digital Health Co-Innovation event – workshop presentation – Arden and Greater East Midlands Commissioning support Unit, Birmingham Business School and Walsall Housing Group Collaboration – June 2023
The NHS England Innovation, Research and Life Sciences and Accelerated Access Away Day – November 2022
The NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Pit Stop, Sheffield, December 2022 – Presenting Founder’s Stories
We are well into the summer and the crisis, as predicted has deepened. We remain committed to teaching and discourse and would love to hear from teams and individuals that think we may be able to help. Contact us via the contact page or email!
