#SpeakUp: City of Sanctuary Sheffield

City of Sanctuary Sheffield used a Healthwatch Sheffield Speak Up grant to explore the experiences of asylum seekers and refugees using healthcare services in Sheffield. Through two community events attended by around 40 to 60 people, participants discussed their experiences of the NHS, mental health support and barriers to accessing care. Overall, there was strong appreciation for the NHS and the principle of free healthcare, with many participants praising caring health professionals, supportive midwives, helpful reception staff and access to emergency services. 

Communication was the most significant issue raised. Many participants struggled with language barriers, understanding healthcare systems and describing symptoms. Interpreters were seen as essential, but concerns were raised about confidentiality, differing dialects and inconsistent quality. Participants also reported difficulties understanding NHS processes, appointment systems and referral pathways. Some asylum seekers and refugees felt healthcare professionals occasionally made assumptions about them based on nationality or background, leading to feelings of stereotyping and mistrust. 

Mental health emerged as a major concern. Participants described the emotional impact of the asylum process, uncertainty about immigration status, separation from family, trauma and isolation. Women were generally more likely than men to have sought support, often through voluntary organisations rather than statutory services. Many felt there was insufficient mental health support available and stressed the importance of trusted relationships, culturally sensitive approaches and opportunities to talk openly about emotional wellbeing. 

The report recommended improving understanding of how the NHS works for new arrivals, strengthening communication and interpreting support, sharing good practice from accessible GP surgeries, increasing awareness among NHS staff of the experiences of asylum seekers and refugees, improving access to mental health support and providing greater clarity around NHS charging arrangements. The report concluded that effective communication, trust and cultural understanding are essential to ensuring asylum seekers and refugees can access healthcare confidently and receive appropriate support.