Healthwatch Croydon was commissioned by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to investigate the views and experiences of vulnerable migrants in Croydon, supporting the CQC’s role as England’s independent regulator of health and social care. The study focused on migrants awaiting residency decisions, residing in local accommodation, and their interactions with health and care services, alongside their awareness of the CQC.
The research involved 12 interviews and 46 surveys with migrants from 24 countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, and Honduras, many fleeing persecution, violence, or seeking refuge. Most had arrived within the past year, though nearly a third had stayed longer.
Findings revealed diverse origins, with most escaping political or religious persecution, war, or criminal threats like gang warfare. Some fled domestic violence, while a few sought work or study before becoming stranded. GP services, particularly Rainbow Health Centre, were widely used, alongside A&E, outpatients, mental health, and dentistry. Satisfaction was high with GPs, but less so with hospital waits, specialist access, and dentistry. Mental health needs and medication access were concerns, mirroring broader resident issues.
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