Published: 28 February, 2025
A Specialist Services operations manager has graduated from the Fairer Health for All Fellowship Programme.
The fellowship, which is designed to tackle health inequalities and promote equality across Greater Manchester, has equipped Bethany Mitchell, with increased knowledge and skills to address improvements within the Asylum Seeker Contingency Service.
Bethany’s focus was to improve access to healthcare information and advice for asylum seekers housed in Manchester hotels; this was achieved by hosting twice monthly drop-in sessions. Bethany said her goal was to reduce barriers to healthcare and empower service users with the knowledge they need to support their health and wellbeing.
“Through my fellowship, I gained valuable insights into how social inequalities such as housing, finances and education impact health, which helped me shape my project,” she said.
“I researched the availability of existing health and care services and identified gaps in support. To address these, I worked with local voluntary, community and social enterprise sectors and Manchester City Council to strengthen the resources available. I focused on ensuring key areas such as mental health, maternity care, sexual health and infectious diseases were covered.
“I then launched twice monthly drop-in sessions, where asylum seekers could speak to me about their health and wellbeing, and I could educate them on the services available. During the sessions, I also assisted with GP practice registration and NHS app guidance.”
David Beckett (left), gtd healthcare's chief executive, said it is clear the project has addressed critical gaps in support for vulnerable communities.
“This is a fantastic achievement and I look forward to seeing the long-term impact of Bethany’s work on the wellbeing of service users,” he said.
Alongside her fellowship, Bethany has also completed a level 2 qualification in public health, further enhancing her expertise.
Bethany will continue to apply her knowledge and skills and there are plans to create a care navigation role to sustain the project’s impact. Specialist Services has also applied for grant funding to expand mental health therapeutic support, further improving the wellbeing of asylum seekers.
For further information, please email gtd.corporateaffairs@nhs.net.
