Sheffield medical students making a ‘positive impact’ at city’s Pakistan Muslim Centre

Student doctors from the University of Sheffield have been working with
Sheffield’s Pakistan Muslim Centre to support the local community.

Under the university’s Social Accountability Placement programme, medical students have been volunteering at the centre.

David Thomas, a third year medical student involved in the programme, said: “You’re truly immersed in the community, which is fantastic.

“At the end of the day it’s the interaction you have with people that really shape the doctor you will become.”

Among other activities, volunteers supported health checks, led diabetes information workshops and delivered mental health talks, all in support of the local community.

Dr Abdul Rob, CEO of the Pakistan Muslim Centre, said: “It’s a very mutually beneficial relationship.

“The students develop their experience and understanding of our community and the challenges we face, and we see a profound impact on the lives of the many people we support.

“The students who work with us each year also leave a genuine legacy through the learning in the community that stays with people long after the placements are completed.”

Dr Rob emphasised the significance of the student’s relationships with the centre’s community, as some are often reluctant to engage with the NHS around topics like mental health.

He added: “There can be a stigma around certain issues in the South Asian community, with mental health being a good example.

“It is sometimes treated as a spiritual rather than medical issue and, as such, people can be reluctant to seek help.

“The way the community interacts with students is very informal and it can feel like more of a safe space to have those discussions.”

The university’s programme started in 2015 and was designed to give students “practical learning experience away from clinical settings while serving the local community”.

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Since then, over 2,600 students have worked with local organisations.

Featured image via the University of Sheffield