We take the time to ensure Survivors access the right health care.
Survivors of trafficking and torture often present with many different types of physical illnesses and injuries, from neglected chronic medical conditions to those sustained as a direct result of severe violence or from working or living in dangerous situations. We can provide medical appointments so that we can help make sure they access the right health care.
WHY DO SURVIVORS NEED MEDICAL ADVICE?
Continuing ill health, pain and distress will hinder a survivor’s journey to a full and sustained recovery and can be a constant reminder of their trauma. Despite having health concerns survivors often have difficulty accessing mainstream health care for multiple reasons. Survivors find it difficult to talk about their past experiences or health concerns often due to shame or the trauma that it triggers. Beginning to address their complex medical needs can be extremely difficult and is particularly difficult in today’s busy and overstretched NHS.
To put it simply, if Survivors are unable to access medical care then they will be unable to fully integrate in society. If medical needs are not addressed, Survivors will remain severely hindered by their injuries, often with confidence issues, and will continue to suffer unnecessarily.
WHAT’S OUR SOLUTION?
The Helen Bamber Foundation’s in-house GPs listen to, and assess, survivors’ medical concerns with the help of experienced interpreters. We offer advice and reassurance as needed and, importantly, help survivors understand their medical problems and any potential treatment options. We aim to empower Survivors to manage their health concerns.
OUR MEDICAL ADVICE SERVICE IS PROFESSIONAL, ENGAGED AND DETERMINED
After our GPs have assessed the client, the doctors will liaise and help survivors engage meaningfully, with appropriate NHS care to ensure that Survivors receive effective support and treatment for their conditions. Our doctors spend as much time as is needed with our clients and offer their specialist advice and guidance, supporting NHS doctors who deliver treatment, prescriptions and secondary care referrals
SOME FACTS ABOUT OUR MEDICAL ADVICE SERVICE.
98% of clients felt that the Medical Advice Service helped them understand their health symptoms and supported them in managing their health issues.