How can migrant communities and services collaborate to improve public health across diverse areas?

Purpose: In the UK, whilst data collection remains challenging, there is growing evidence of low uptake of preventative health services by migrant communities, with the knowledge and experience of accessing primary and community care particularly poor among Roma groups. Bhopal (2018) argues for political bravery in resourcing integrated strategies that advance migrant health in a wider social justice context and challenge negative narratives and persistent systemic inequities.

Kent Community Health Foundation Trust (KCHFT) is implementing an innovative, asset-framed project over three years. They are testing new ways of working in recruitment, health visiting and school nursing; employing staff from migrant communities to strengthen and deliver preventative healthcare; and building collaborative partnerships and shared objectives with local community based organisations including Red Zebra's 'Roma in the Lead' project. CHSS is evaluating this approach to assess the effectiveness, feasibility and replicability.