ΣΥΜΒΟΥΛΕΥΤΙΚΗ ΚΟΙΝΩΝΙΚΑ ΕΥΑΛΩΤΩΝ ΟΜΑΔΩΝ

Vulnerable groups are physically, mentally, or socially disadvantaged persons who may be unable to meet their basic needs and may therefore require specific assistance. Persons exposed to and/or displaced by conflict or natural hazard may also be considered vulnerable. Vulnerable groups may experience a higher risk of poverty and/or social exclusion.

UNHCR. (2006). Master Glossary of Terms Rev. 1.

People are considered vulnerable, for various different reasons. The following list identifies individuals or groups who are potentially considered at risk:

• Ethnicity
• Disability
• Migrants
• Age
• Sexuality

The health domains of vulnerable populations can be divided into 3 categories: physical, psychological, and social.

Those with physical needs include high-risk mothers and infants, the chronically ill and disabled, and persons living with human immunodeficiency (HIV) syndrome. Chronic medical conditions include respiratory diseases, diabetes, and heart disease.

In the psychological domain; vulnerable populations include those with chronic mental conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, as well as those with a history of alcohol and/or substance abuse.

In the social realm; vulnerable populations include those living in abusive families, the homeless, immigrants, and refugees.

Source: WHO