A training programme developed by young Black people in coordination with researchers at the University of Birmingham aims to build bridges in mental health awareness and improve access to services for marginalised communities.
Young Black people who have experienced mental illness will deliver the training to underserved and marginalised communities gathering in places of worship or community centres. In addition, online training will enable healthcare workers and other community stakeholders to support Black communities better.
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Funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation), the project focuses on enhancing mental health literacy within Black communities. It encourages communities who are currently underserved in terms of mental health provision to access timely support for their mental health.
The work is part of a larger social action project, Co-STARS, which delivers training on intersectionality and mental health inequalities to community stakeholders, including members of the criminal justice system and children’s social services. Co-STARS focuses on providing accurate knowledge about mental illness, self-care practices, and access to support while addressing often-overlooked cultural nuances among Black African and Black Caribbean communities.
In the UK, Black people are disproportionately affected by psychosis, a severe form of mental illness causing a disruption of thoughts, leading to a loss of contact with reality. Psychosis can have a profound impact on a person’s life, and vulnerable groups, including those from minority ethnic backgrounds and socioeconomically disadvantaged situations, are at higher risk. Such health inequalities challenges stem from racism, discrimination, mental health stigma, and limited awareness of the symptoms of mental health within communities.
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The researchers are working with Catalyst 4 Change CIC, Forward Thinking, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Foundation Trust, and Black Country HealthCare NHS Trust to deliver the training programme to underserved communities and offer healthcare providers and other stakeholders online training to provide better mental health support for Black communities. The work will be part of ongoing research trials at the University of Birmingham, with the researchers measuring outcomes such as reduced mental health detentions, improved well-being, and societal benefits.
Dr Sian Lowri Griffiths, Assistant Professor School of Psychology at the University of Birmingham, said: ‘Co-STARS represents a joint effort to dismantle mental health disparities and secure lasting change by empowering Black communities and health professionals. We want to reduce mental health inequalities for Black ethnic groups – Co-STARS is a beacon of hope and progress towards achieving this goal.’
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She added: ‘By equipping professionals with culturally sensitive tools, we enhance their ability to address unique challenges faced by Black individuals.’
