United Kingdom

In the UK, refugees and asylum seekers often struggle to obtain the comprehensive services they need after making dangerous journeys to reach the country.  
 

In partnership with Doctors of the World, MSF ran mobile clinics to assist people held at the Wethersfield mass containment site in Essex from late 2023 until April 2025. During this time, we identified several people with acute mental health needs, which led us to begin a mental health program for refugees and asylum seekers housed in different facilities in Birmingham and Sandwell.

In these locations, MSF provides a range of services, including outreach activities, initial assessments, and individual and group therapy sessions. With these activities, we aim to facilitate access to care, identify needs, and refer patients as needed.

Once we identify a person who needs psychological support, we conduct an initial assessment to determine if our trauma program is suitable for them. Those with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are enrolled in a seven-week trauma treatment program designed to support symptom management and improve emotional stability.

At the end of each program cycle, we have follow-up interviews to measure progress and determine whether a referral for further treatment is needed. Throughout this stage, MSF supports patients in dealing with administrative and bureaucratic barriers.