Friday, July 01, 2011
New Regulations Improve Healthcare for Asylum Seekers
New guidelines give greater access to healthcare for asylum seekers
New Department of Health regulations on health entitlements for refugees and asylum seekers will come into force on 1st August 2011. Crucially, the regulations give improved access to healthcare for refused asylum seekers, who at the moment are often either refused treatment or asked to pay for it. Since many are destitute this can prevent vulnerable people accessing essential services. As of August 1st the following groups can access the NHS without charge:
• refugees
• asylum seekers
• refused asylum seekers supported by the UK Borders Agency
• unaccompanied minors
• victims of trafficking
This is a progressive move that means people still waiting for protection from the UK government will be able to go to the doctor without fear. The change is due to lots of hard work by STAR’s partners in the Still Human Still Here coalition.
For the full information from the Department of Health go to their website
Posted by STAR team on 01/07/2011 at 02:35 PM
