
ABOUT SICKLE CELL CARE MANCHESTER
We will:
- Advocate
- Raise awareness of the condition
- Liaise within communities
- Signpost
- Educate
- Mentor and Support
Here’s How
Simply put, there is a lack of knowledge regarding Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and its many effects, and many people outside of the African and Caribbean community are unaware that they too can be impacted. They may either have the condition themselves (diagnosis rates for white European and Mediterranean communities are rising) or have relatives, co-workers, or neighbours who may require support.
A sickle cell patient may need help locating the best medical attention, social support, and community education. Since Sickle Cell Care Manchester (SCCM) staff do not have clinical training, we will direct service users to knowledgeable nurses, consultants, and nurse counsellors employed by Greater Manchester Hospitals to ensure that they are always receiving high-quality care.
We play a significant role in identifying people who may require screening for the status of their condition because it is the only reliable way to tell if someone is a sickle cell carrier, also known as sickle cell trait.
Sickle Cell Care Manchester has participated in radio interviews and live radio phone-ins on the local radio over the years and will continue to do so to discuss the numerous issues surrounding Sickle Cell Disease and what it means to have a “carrier status.” To keep the public informed, we work to stay on the cutting edge of advancements and new discoveries in the field of sickle cell disease.
We also provide formal and casual presentations (depending on what is needed) in community centres, schools, colleges, places of worship, seminars for the local African and Caribbean community, and via social media.
Additionally, we will speak up for those who have sickle cell disease and inform their employers and educational institutions of the seriousness and severity of their condition because those who have SCD frequently find it very difficult to convey this information. This helps the employer or educator understand why the person with sickle may have a high rate of absences, be disorganised or behind schedule, or have trouble focusing and completing specific activities.
The Department of Work and Pensions frequently fails to provide adequate support for those who deserve benefits and, regrettably, does not comprehend their needs. In these cases, we act as advocates and we also get referrals from the NHS, which we take up and are successful at supporting.
Everyone who has a child, partner, or sibling with sickle cell disease suffers as well. It is incredibly tough to watch a loved one suffer in excruciating pain while powerless to comfort them. Caregiving for someone with sickle cell disease is incredibly demanding, and carers are frequently left feeling fatigued on both a physical and emotional level. To help, we pool best practise initiatives and information sharing through our Sickle Cell Care Manchester Support Group.
The condition can make people withdraw from others to “become less of a burden” or because they believe that “no one understands/believes them” regarding what they are going through. Through home and hospital visits, we combat this isolation by connecting our clients with other like-minded individuals who have a relaxing and upbeat approach towards this disease. Additionally, SCCM places a high value on friendship, guaranteeing that every person will always have a listening ear.