Peer MIST
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Developing Peer Led Movement-based Intervention to Improve Physical and Psychological Outcomes for Survivors of Torture and Trauma in Wales and Beyond
IRAS ID
331894
Contact name
Paula Foscarini-Craggs
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
Many sanctuary seekers (asylum seekers and refugees) experience war or political events that force them to leave their home countries. This displacement can leave sanctuary seekers struggling with their physical and mental health. Research shows that treating mental and physical health together is better compared to treating them on their own. Many sanctuary seekers like doing physical activities to help their mental health.
The project aims to bring an existing group-based physiotherapy intervention to the UK. It was developed by an organisation called The Centre for Victims of Torture (CVT). The treatment programme is delivered by physiotherapists and combines physical movement, relaxation techniques, and goal setting to improve outcomes for trauma and torture survivors.
In Wales, differences in language and culture means that many sanctuary seekers struggle to get help for their mental and physical health. We think asking sanctuary seekers to help lead the group sessions will make it easier for other sanctuary seekers to take part. There will need to be changes made to the treatment programme to make sure that it is appropriate for peer leaders to deliver.
To make sure that the treatment programme can be led by peer leaders the study will:
(a) Explore how sanctuary seekers access physical and mental health care in Wales
(b) Work with sanctuary seekers to create the therapy materials, training, and create a support system for the peer leaders.
(c) Create a visual representation of how the therapy works and how it may lead to benefits.
(d) Make sure the therapy is acceptable to sanctuary seekers.
Sanctuary seekers, and staff from charities and the NHS will be asked to take part in in interviews, and workshops to discuss the therapy. At the end of the project some sanctuary seekers will get the chance to try the therapy.REC name
N/A
REC reference
N/A