Hull: ‘Dost’ – Launch of BAME Wellbeing and Signposting service

As the region tackles yet another Covid-19 lockdown and its impact, Smile Foundation recognise how important it is to continue ensuring the mental and physical wellbeing of all.

They would like to present their ‘Dost’ project, a befriending and signposting service for BAME communities in the East Riding, Hull, North Lincolnshire, and North East Lincolnshire regions. As the name ‘dost’ – Hindi for friend – suggests, the project is here to provide friendly support and signposting to clinical and non-clinical pathways. The aim is to reduce health and wellbeing inequalities for communities that have been disproportionately affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

They are supported by  partner NHS Trusts and are therefore able to signpost beneficiaries to the various clinical services. Some areas of special consideration are:-

• Mental Health
• Emotional Wellbeing
• Perinatal Mental Health Services
• Suicide Prevention

They have set up a BAME helpline number 01482 215929 (option 2) . Simply dial the number and select the correct option, and Bibhash Dash, Black Asian and Minority Ethnic Wellbeing Coordinator, or an appointed Smile Foundation volunteer will be happy to offer information and signposting to  clinical and non-clinical pathways.

Phone lines are open Monday to Friday, 10am – 4pm

Note: If any of your community members require translation or interpretation services, please get in touch and they will be happy to discuss the necessary arrangements.