Medicine, at its heart, is about serving people — and some of the most meaningful work I do takes place outside of my private clinics. I am proud to volunteer as a gynaecologist at the Dispensaire Français, a charity that has been a lifeline for the French-speaking community in London for over two hundred years.
What is the Dispensaire Français?
The Dispensaire Français is part of the Société Française de Bienfaisance (SFB), a registered charity (No. 1125579) founded in 1816. Based at 184 Hammersmith Road, London W6 7DJ, it provides free and low-cost medical consultations, social support, and welfare services to French-speaking people living in the United Kingdom who are in financial difficulty.
The charity relies on the generosity of volunteer doctors, donations from individuals and companies, and the dedication of its staff to continue its mission. It is one of the oldest French charitable organisations outside of France and remains a vital resource for vulnerable members of the community.
Why I volunteer
As a French-trained gynaecologist now practising in London, I understand the challenges that French-speaking women face when navigating the British healthcare system. Language barriers, cultural differences, and financial constraints can all prevent women from seeking the gynaecological care they need.
At the Dispensaire Français, I offer free gynaecological consultations to women who cannot afford private healthcare. These consultations cover a wide range of women's health concerns, including:
- Cervical screening and smear tests
- Contraception advice and management
- Menstrual disorders and period problems
- Menopausal symptoms and guidance
- Breast health assessments
- General gynaecological check-ups
- Referrals for further investigation when needed
Healthcare should have no barriers
I firmly believe that every woman deserves access to compassionate, expert gynaecological care — regardless of her financial situation or the language she speaks. Too many women delay seeking help because they feel they cannot afford it, or because they struggle to explain intimate health concerns in a language that is not their own.
The Dispensaire Français bridges that gap. It offers a space where French-speaking women can discuss their health openly, in their own language, with a specialist who understands both their medical needs and their cultural context.
How you can help
The Dispensaire Français depends on the support of the community to continue providing free healthcare. If you would like to contribute, there are several ways to get involved:
- Donate: Financial contributions of any size help the charity continue its vital work
- Spread the word: If you know someone in the French-speaking community who may benefit from these services, please let them know
- Volunteer: Healthcare professionals and support staff are always welcome
No woman should have to choose between paying her bills and looking after her health. The Dispensaire Français ensures that French-speaking women in London have a safe, welcoming place to receive the care they deserve.
To learn more about the Dispensaire Français and the Société Française de Bienfaisance, visit www.df-sfb.org.uk.
Looking for a private gynaecologist in London? Dr. Kotur de Castelbajac also sees patients at her clinics in Kensington and Harley Street.
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