Masterclasses

Empathy on the Margins: Breaking down barriers in inclusion healthcare

Dr Andy Ward MBChB, MSc, PFHEA

Inclusion health refers to the care of socially excluded populations who often experience multiple, overlapping risk factors that contribute to poor health outcomes. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, vulnerable migration status, sex work, or involvement with the justice system. Accessing healthcare is particularly challenging for these groups, as they frequently encounter barriers such as stigma and a lack of empathy from healthcare professionals.

In this interactive workshop, we will explore these barriers and examine how empathy can improve healthcare experiences for these vulnerable populations. Through firsthand accounts from individuals with lived experience of homelessness and the asylum process, participants will gain deeper insights into the challenges faced and develop practical strategies to foster more compassionate, effective care.

Educational outcomes:

• Identify and understand the key barriers faced by inclusion health populations

• Recognise the impact of these barriers on health outcomes and access to care

• Explore and develop empathy-driven approaches to overcoming these barriers