Toolbox

Toolbox for working with Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures

• During the migration and acculturation process, some aspects of culture become heightened and entrenched; stigma is one of these. Emphasise that New Zealand has different values around disability.
• Although most people from Middle Eastern countries will be familiar with Western medicine, health system pathways, roles and service names may differ. Enquire about understanding of services and provide information and explanations where needed.
• Elders usually make the decisions in families, and not necessarily the parents of a child with disability. Engage key decision makers and caregivers in consultations and treatment plans. Involve an interpreter when necessary.
• Some Muslims, although observant followers of their faith, may hold traditional cultural views about disability. If a family fails to engage or follow through with treatment, explore whether there are cultural beliefs or needs that are not being met.
• Some immigrant Afghanis, Iraqis and Khurds (from Iraq) will have refugee backgrounds. They may be dealing with overwhelming pre-migration trauma and may prioritise other needs before disability support. Priorities need to be met so that families do not disengage from services and members with disability remain without support in the longer-term.
• Re-settled Muslims often face discrimination because of their faith, this can be doubled for people with disability and tripled for refugees. As a health practitioner, become aware of misconceptions and prejudices that you may carry. Keep alert to how these can be conveyed in practice.