Ulster University Hosts Groundbreaking Inclusion Health Interprofessional Education Conference

Strategic Insights -

The conference, the first of its kind, brought together Ulster University students from various healthcare disciplines to improve healthcare outcomes for communities, particularly those experiencing homelessness. Led by Suzanne Manning and Dr Clare Puddifoot, the event aimed to shift the culture in healthcare education by incorporating the voices and challenges of people with lived or professional experience of homelessness. The conference built on the 2023 work of Dr Puddifoot and Dr Eleanor Cape, which explored the representation of homelessness and addiction in health education.

Key Takeaways:

  • The conference was the first ever Inclusion Health Interprofessional Education (IPE) Conference, aiming to improve healthcare outcomes for all communities, particularly those experiencing homelessness.
  • The event was designed to shift the culture in healthcare education by incorporating the voices and challenges of people with lived or professional experience of homelessness.
  • Students from various healthcare disciplines, including medicine, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, and dietetics, participated in the conference.
  • The conference built on the 2023 work of Dr Puddifoot and Dr Eleanor Cape, which explored the representation of homelessness and addiction in health education.
  • The Homelessness Health in Medical Education (HHIME) working group was established to prepare medical practitioners for marginalized populations.
  • The conference included expert speakers and people with lived experience of homelessness, discussing topics such as addiction, stigma, and trauma-informed communication.
  • Students engaged in student-led discussion and reflective questions, paired with each session, to foster interprofessional collaboration and inclusive learning.
  • A mobile health unit was present in Guildhall Square, offering insight into frontline outreach and demonstration of the impact of the conference.
  • The conference was delivered in partnership with the Western Health and Social Care Trust, Derry City and Strabane District Council, and key homelessness organizations.

Statistics:

  • Over 4,000 homeless households exist in Derry and Strabane.
  • The WWCT Inclusion Health Service remains closely involved in the project.
  • The event included expert speakers and people with lived experience of homelessness, including 12 speakers and 2 peer supporters.
  • The conference attracted a range of students, including 40 from Allied Health Professions, 30 from Nursing, and 25 from Medicine.

Sources:

  • Ulster University News Release
  • Western Health and Social Care Trust
  • Derry City and Strabane District Council
  • NI Housing Executive
  • De Paul
  • First Housing
  • Northlands
  • Western Trust 'Labre Hub' Inclusion Homeless Health Service
  • NW Methodist Mission, ARC, Apex, The Simon Community, and The Northern Ireland Housing Executive.