Welcome’s Health Team support our families with all aspects of their healthcare (with the informed consent of the families), from the moment they arrive in the UK. Over time, the families are supported to become confident and independent in understanding NHS systems, enabling them to organise and manage their own healthcare.
Actions of the Health Team include:
- As part of the application process, Community Sponsorship groups must contact the local GP and ensure they have space for the prospective family
- Arrange registration with the GP upon arrival
- Liaising with relevant healthcare providers and acting as link with the families; ensuring interpreters are booked for appointments
- Attending appointments with families until they feel confident alone
- Organising a rota of volunteer support in case health situations arise
- Regular liaison with Welcome interpreters to ensure families understand health services and needs, and are able to make informed decisions and discuss any concerns in their first language
- Working with families to set goals and actions for health independence, ensuring the family feel well informed and comfortable at various stages