Representatives from NHS NW London inner cluster Engagement team met with Ukrainian refugees at a welcome event on 21 July 2022.
The event was held at the Ukrainian Catholic Church, on Duke Street, in Mayfair. The venue acts as an unofficial hub for the growing Ukrainian community in central west London.
The occasion was organised by Westminster Council, to support Ukrainian new refugees residing in Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea, settle into the locality and tell them about key public services, in areas such as healthcare, housing, education, employment and welfare. There were delegates from a range of charities and community groups, all sharing expertise important in helping attendees adapt to life in the UK.
Members of the NHS NW London inner cluster engagement team who specialise in engagement, whose role it is to attain feedback from local community, individuals and community groups and spread the word about healthcare initiatives, gave out translated leaflets (in Ukrainian and Russian) and provided an introduction to local NHS services. They answered questions about GP registration, screening programmes, immunisations, amongst other related topics.
Attendees from the Ukrainian community were enthusiastic and wanted to learn more about our healthcare system. They gave the team invaluable feedback, particularly regarding their experience with dentistry services. Dr Ethnie provided responses to some factual questions/points of clarification about access to dental care.
We will continue working closely with the Ukrainian community, and take this opportunity to wish new residents all the best in settling into life in the UK and the capital.