| Abstract: | Since the mid-1990s, Ireland has become a more culturally diversesociety. To ensure equitable, culturally sensitive services,social workers need to consult with and listen to views of serviceusers. This paper reports on findings of two recent studiesby social workers in Ireland with migrants living with HIV.It highlights how many of those newly diagnosed with HIV arefrom sub-Saharan African countries and still in the asylum processand discusses barriers to accessing support and integratinginto Irish society. The paper points out that unless properlysupported, those living with HIV may find it difficult to disclosetheir HIV status and highlights the importance of tackling HIVstigma. It concludes with the need to provide training for healthcare workers to provide culturally appropriate services, andargues against immigration policies which inhibit integration. |
