I have been a resident in North London all my life. I was an NHS Dr for 34 years, and retired after 26 years practising as a GP in Burnt Oak, Edgware.
In 1998 I collaborated with the group affiliated to Barnet Voluntary Services Bureau working with refugees, (the origins of New Citizens’ Gateway) to enhance local services for refugees in primary care.
I was involved in postgraduate medical education and an Associate Dean in London University, leading the International Doctors Unit for 12 years. This unit dealt with internationally trained doctors, refugee doctors and EU GPs. Projects included:
o Clinical Experience Scheme and Refugee Dr GPVTS which supported refugee doctors to be able to practice in the UK and get substantive posts in the NHS. Over 300 refugee doctors were helped into NHS posts by this scheme
o EU GP Project enlarging the GP workforce for the UK
o I set up the Communications Skills Unit to improve communication skills in internationally qualified doctors, and also UK trained doctors from any speciality requiring remedial help
I am now privileged to be involved with New Citizens’ Gateway as a Trustee, to enhance strategy and governance structures, and support the many ways NCG through practical schemes seeks to enhance refugees’ lives and build a cohesive local community.
