Developing Peer Led Movement-based Intervention to Improve Physical and Psychological Outcomes for Survivors of Torture and Trauma in Wales and Beyond (Peer-MIST)

Many sanctuary seekers experiences of war or political events force them to leave their home countries. These events can leave sanctuary seekers struggling  with their physical and mental health. Movement-based therapies can be helpful in treating mental and physical health challenges together. Research shows that treating mental and physical health together is better compared to treating them on their own. Many sanctuary seekers like doing physical activities to help their mental health.

The project aims to bring an existing movement-based therapy to the UK. It was developed by a group called Centre for Victims of Torture. The therapy uses movement, and education to help sanctuary seekers learn to take care of their physical and mental health. The therapy has been used in the Middle East and North Africa for over 10 years. Sanctuary seekers report finding it helpful to reduce pain and make daily activities easier to do.

In Wales, differences in language and culture means that many sanctuary seekers struggle to get help for their mental and physical health. Also, many healthcare staff have little information about sanctuary seeker experiences. We think asking sanctuary seeker to help teach the therapy will make it easier for other sanctuary seekers to take part. It can also help healthcare staff to learn more about the experiences of sanctuary seekers.

To make sure that therapy can be led by peer leaders the study will:

(a) Explore how sanctuary seekers access health care and support in Wales
(b)    Work with sanctuary seekers to create the therapy materials, training, and create a support
system for the peer leaders.
(c)    Create a map showing how the therapy works.
(d)    Make sure the therapy is acceptable to sanctuary seekers.

Sanctuary seekers, and staff from charities and the NHS will be asked to take part in in interviews, and workshops to discuss the therapy. At the end of the project some sanctuary seekers will get the chance to try the therapy. We will then ask them about their experiences.