On 2 September, a training session titled “Inclusive Work with Refugees and Key Populations: HIV Service Experience and Practical Approaches” took place in Narva within the RefAid BaltHUB project.

The training brought together medical and social workers, representatives of harm reduction and opioid substitution therapy services, peer counsellors, and other professionals who work with people in need of support.

Participants discussed the barriers that refugees and key populations may face when accessing healthcare. The conversation focused on how to make interaction with the healthcare system more accessible, safe, and sensitive.

Special attention was given to effective referral pathways, information sharing, communication with patients, sensitive ways of asking questions, and better understanding people’s needs.

Through practical cases, group work, and interactive exercises, participants explored complex situations from their professional practice and discussed approaches that can help improve contact with patients and access to essential services.

The training also addressed trauma-informed care as an important part of quality and sensitive healthcare. This approach helps professionals better understand how previous experiences of stress, displacement, violence, or loss may affect a person’s communication, trust, and ability to seek help.

For RefAid BaltHUB, such trainings are an important part of strengthening inclusive and non-discriminatory support for refugees and communities in vulnerable situations.

We thank all participants for their active involvement, openness to discussion, and readiness to share their experience.