CAM’s Rrom Program, which seeks to address major issues that Rrom communities face in the department of Saint Denis, fits in a participative approach. For two years, we have been funded by the Fondation Abbé Pierre to set up an inter-agency committee to coordinate the work of organizations involved in supporting Rrom communities in the outer suburbs of Paris.
Our initiative aims at improving information about the activities of all organizations working with Rrom communities as well as promoting improved quality of service delivery through greater coordination and collaboration between agencies. Working in partnership with these different associations, CAM encourages communication on issues of common concerns, the exchange of practical knowledge and the sharing of information, in order to improve the support and assistance provided to this disadvantaged and excluded community.
As Romania has now joined the EU, the knowledge and skills of the Rrom people need to be considered to help with their integration and avoid marginalization. It is hoped that expanded coordination will enhance solutions to the most significant issues the Rrom people face: access to affordable and appropriate accommodation and finding work. Besides, the ultimate goal of this coordination work is to create a centre for new ideas and improved practice, leading to improvements in the standards of health for the Rrom community and to greater recognition of their place in our community.
Associations working in the field are those who know best these communities. Creation of trusted relationships allows them to communicate effectively and work in partnership with Rrom community members.
Since June 2009, along with Médecins du Monde (MdM), we ensure mediation and interpreting services at the Delafonteine Hospital in St.Denis, every Thursday morning. The goal of the mediation is to improve medical management of Rrom people within the hospital. CAM and MdM also hope to instigate information sessions to the different departments of the hospital in order to improve awareness about Rrom people’s specificities and needs.
Partners
Public health structures :
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DDASS de Seine Saint-Denis, Région Ile de France, GRSP, Medical Health Centres (CMS), Hospitals, Family planning centres, CDDPS
Organisations et associations
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Médecins du Monde, PARADA, ASET 93, ASAV, Rues et Cités, Gisti, CIMADE, Secours Catholique, Romeurope, Fondation Abbé Pierre
