Northern Ireland New Entrant Service (NINES) - Belfast Trust

Belfast Health and Social Care Trust in collaboration with the Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care, has established an evidence based Nurse-led service for new entrants to Northern Ireland.

The project provides a variety of clinics to support the health and social well-being of new immigrants , asylum seekers, refugees, targeted children 0-16 years.

This service aims to support all new entrants by offering screening, health education and sign posting to other services.

Objectives of New Entrant Service

• To offer a holistic service to meet the health and wellbeing needs of new immigrants.
• To improve the interface between primary and secondary care.
• To plan the transition of clients to mainstream primary care services.

Service Delivery :

A client held passport has been developed in five languages to enhance communication between primary and secondary care.  Clients bring their health passport to subsequent health appointments with GP/Hospital/NINES

Delivery of

• mantoux/BCG programme for children 0-16 years.
• Support in registering with GP/Dentist, Opticians.
• Health Screening particularly for TB, Blood Pressure, Urinalysis, Blood Glucose.
• Blood screening tests eg Hepatitis B/C, HIV Direct referral pathways has been established to specialist service i.e. GUM clinic, RMJH
• Fast tracking for chest x-rays allows early detection of Tuberculosis and onward referral to chest clinic for investigations and treatment if required.
• Client advocacy.
• Confidential help and advice

This is a unique service that seeks to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable clients groups whilst seeking to validate the contribution that BME clients can offer to enhance a culturally rich and diverse Northern Ireland.