AQW 13291/22-27

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 12/06/2024
Answered On Date: 17/07/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the discussions they have had with the Minister of Health in relation to sensitivities in accessing health services as part of the new Refugee Integration Strategy, including culturally appropriate use of interpreters.

Answer:

Our officials and those from the Department of Health have been in regular contact to inform the development of a Refugee Integration Strategy and associated Thematic Delivery Plan, with one of the themes being ‘Healthcare and Social Care’. Interpretation services, cultural competence and trauma informed practice have been discussed and are being considered for the Thematic Delivery Plan.

In addition, the Department of Health commissions the Business Services Organisation (BSO) to provide an interpreting service to Health and Social Care providers here to improve access to HSC services and provide support to those who do not speak English proficiently. BSO is committed to providing a culturally sensitive service that is responsive to the needs of its service users.