This project was led by Ilyas Najib, a highly experienced community practitioner with deep roots in the local area. Now in his sixth year at Halifax Opportunities Trust, Ilyas brings a unique, trusted approach to engagement, alongside an extensive reach across diverse communities.
Drawing on this experience, Ilyas delivered a general men’s cancer awareness session to a group of asylum seekers who had only very recently arrived in the UK. His leadership ensured the session was accessible, culturally sensitive, and responsive to the needs of participants from the outset, laying the foundation for meaningful engagement and impact.
Responding to Immediate Language Barriers in a Newly Arrived Community
Early in the session, it became clear that many participants spoke little to no English, creating a significant communication challenge—particularly when discussing complex and sensitive topics such as cancer symptoms, screening, and accessing healthcare.
Identifying a Practical, Participant-Led Solution
Rather than allowing this barrier to limit the effectiveness of the session, we worked collaboratively to identify a practical solution. Through observation and discussion, it became apparent that many of the men were confident smartphone users and already relied on translation apps in their daily lives.
We introduced Google Translate’s camera scan function, enabling participants to scan an easy-to-read cancer awareness guide and view the information instantly in their own language.
Encouraging Interaction, Independence, and Peer Support
The session quickly became interactive, with participants asking questions through the translation app, pointing to images, and discussing the information together. This approach empowered the men to take control of their own learning rather than relying solely on verbal explanations. It also respected their dignity, independence, and varied communication needs while effectively overcoming language barriers.
Embedding Sustainable Change Within the Accommodation Setting
As a direct outcome of the session, the asylum hotel agreed to provide every new arrival with an easy-to-read cancer awareness guide. Staff will actively encourage residents to use translation apps to scan and understand the information in their own language, ensuring that essential health messages are accessible from the moment someone arrives, regardless of their level of English.
Creating Lasting Access to Life-Saving Health Information
Importantly, the guide clearly explains who to contact if support is needed, helping asylum seekers understand where to go for advice, appointments, and further information.
This approach has created a sustainable, inclusive model for sharing life-saving health information—improving awareness, confidence, and access to cancer services among newly arrived asylum seekers.
Find out more about Calderdale Cancer Aware
