Recognition for community team supporting torture survivors

A community project which brings pain relief to survivors of torture has been recognised by an international health body for its excellent work.

The Health Inclusion Team, which helps torture survivors reduce their dependence on painkillers and teaches them techniques for managing their condition, presented details of the innovative project at the 14th World Congress on Pain. 

Since the project began in January 2004, the team has helped more than 1,000 vulnerable people, including refugees, who have survived torture and are in chronic pain.

Samantha Dorney-Smith said: "Living with chronic pain is difficult enough, but can be especially damaging if you do not know how to get the medical help and support you need. We are proud of the work we are doing to help vulnerable people overcome the pain and distress they are experiencing after a period of great trauma."

Health care professionals can find out more by contacting Andreia Negron on andreia.negron@lambethpct.nhs.uk|