About Streetdoctors
Streetdoctors: Empowering Young People to Keep Themselves and Others Safe
Streetdoctors is a non-profit organization that aims to empower young people affected by violence to keep themselves and others safe. The organization was founded in 2008 by two medical students, Dr. Simon Walsh and Dr. Johann Grundlingh, who were inspired by the idea of using their medical knowledge to help young people at risk of violence.
The mission of Streetdoctors is simple yet powerful: to teach young people life-saving skills that can help them avoid becoming victims or perpetrators of violence. Through its unique training programs, Streetdoctors equips young people with the knowledge and confidence they need to make informed decisions about their safety.
One of the key features of Streetdoctors' approach is its focus on peer-to-peer education. The organization trains volunteer medical students and doctors as instructors, who then work with local youth groups and schools to deliver workshops on topics such as first aid, knife crime awareness, and self-defense.
By using peer educators who are close in age to the participants, Streetdoctors creates a safe space for open discussion about sensitive issues related to violence prevention. This approach has proven highly effective in engaging young people who may be reluctant or distrustful of authority figures such as police officers or teachers.
Streetdoctors also works closely with partner organizations such as hospitals, community centers, and youth charities to reach a wider audience. Its programs have been delivered in cities across the UK including London, Manchester, Liverpool, Bristol, Birmingham among others.
In addition to its training programs for young people directly affected by violence or at risk thereof , Streetdoctors also offers professional development opportunities for healthcare professionals interested in working with vulnerable populations . These include workshops on trauma-informed care , cultural competency , mental health first aid among other topics .
Overall , Streetdoctor's innovative approach has earned it recognition from both national media outlets like BBC Newsnight and international organizations such as the World Health Organization. Its impact on young people's lives is immeasurable, with many participants reporting increased confidence, resilience, and a sense of agency over their own safety.
If you are interested in supporting Streetdoctors' mission or learning more about its programs, visit their website at www.streetdoctors.org.
streetdoctors.org
