• Acknowledge alternative perspectives on mental health.
• Ensure service providers are trained to understand the impacts of trauma on our refugee communities.

What we are doing

We have recommended all ethnic minority communities should be involved in mental health delivery plans. We will ensure a safe space for people to contribute ideas and share their experiences.

A dedicated Healthcare Resettlement Team in the NHS. And there is a programme of work to ensure that all staff deliver trauma-informed care.

There is a team of resettlement staff in the Council who have qualifications and training to support refugees. 

We are developing a trauma-informed and trauma-responsive workforce to help refugees experience a greater sense of stability and security.

What we plan to do

We will organise a workshop on alternative perspectives on mental health and wellbeing. VANL and members of the NL Community and Voluntary Sector Mental Health and Wellbeing and wider voluntary service organisations will be involved.

The resettlement team are in discussion with the Scottish Refugee Council regarding training gaps and future training.  

The NHS will carry out a detailed enquiry into the health and wellbeing experiences of people who have settled in Lanarkshire over many years. 

VANL will work with community groups to increase their capacity to support refugees and asylum seekers.

"There are spiritual issues involved which need to be looked at when dealing with mental health issues."

"We want to work with something that is giving back to the community.  I would love to volunteer on anything to do with care or mental health."