Barriers to Accessing Services

Question 1

what are possible geographical obstacles that stop you from accessing services?

Answer 1

-service is difficult to get because of poor bus or train services

Question 2

what are possible financial obstacles that stop you from accessing services?

Answer 2

• charges to use the service

- time off from work would mean loss of pay

Question 3

what are possible psychological obstacles that stop you from accessing services?

Answer 3

-fear of being judged because there is stigma around a health problem

Question 4

what are possible physical obstacles that stop you from accessing services?

Answer 4

• difficulty getting into the building where the service is provided
• nowhere to park near the service

Question 5

what are possible personal needs obstacles that stop you from accessing services?

Answer 5

• communication difficulties because of poor language skills, sensory or learning difficulties
• concern that cultural needs are not understood

Question 6

what are possible resources obstacles that stop you from accessing services?

Answer 6

• limits on services, such as support aids and equipment

- staff shortages, leading to long waits for appointments and support

Question 7

what are ways to overcome geographical obstacles?

Answer 7

• arrange hospital transport

- suggest telephone helplines or internet support groups

Question 8

what are ways to overcome financial obstacles?

Answer 8

• check for entitlements, such as free medicines and treatment
• direct the person on to advice on benefits and employee rights

Question 9

what are ways to overcome psychological obstacles?

Answer 9

• talk about concerns and and reassure

- direct the person to a charity that supports the specific health problem

Question 10

what are ways to overcome physical barriers?

Answer 10

• be aware of services that are adapted for easy access

- ask a friend or family member to drop the person at the service

Question 11

what are ways to overcome personal needs barriers?

Answer 11

• provide support services that meet the persons needs such as BSL, signer, interpreter, advocate
• use anti-discriminatory practice and encourage others to do so

Question 12

what are ways to overcome resources barriers?

Answer 12

• suggest sources of second hand equipment

- look for alternative strategies, for example an exercise DVD if there are no places at an exercise class