I am participating in a Needs Assessment for International Migrants in the city of Brighton and Hove as a community researcher. This is a very exciting project being carried out by partnership formed by the council, the NHS, the University of Brighton and other organisations, like SIS, which means that there are several agencies interested in migrants’ needs and that says a lot about the sense of community that can be experienced in this city. Considering that it is being conducted in the current Brexit political climate, it certainly shows commitment.
Reaching out to the community is a very fulfilling experience. When I explained the details of this project, I was surprised to see how many people wanted to contribute with their thoughts and their experiences. Individuals from very different backgrounds appreciated that someone wanted to know about them. We have had outstanding support from the organisers throughout the project and we received fantastic training on how to carry out focus groups to gather the data needed. The way they are structured and the different methods used are a great way to collect the data and they are carried out in a participatory and inclusive way creating a very positive atmosphere. In addition, these focus groups are an ideal environment for people to talk, to feel relaxed, to have a good time, to share what they have in common, the aspects that bring us together, whatever it is that makes us feel part of a community. This sense of belonging makes us feel good and important because we are part of something, we contribute to something. Sharing experiences, good and bad, help us relate to each other. It was a pleasant surprise to see how openly some people spoke about their experiences, and how respectfully they were treated by others.
I do have to thank SIS, for giving me the opportunity to participate in this project, as well as for the continued excellent support. It has been a very rewarding experience, and I feel very privileged to have had the chance to act as a link between my community and the local authority helping people voice their needs.
Aleceia de Juan
Community Interpreter
