Monthly Archives: March 2025

LARCH Annual Conference 2025: Advancing Anti-Racism in Health & Care

On March 7, 2025, The Foundry in London became the epicenter of a powerful movement towards racial equity in healthcare.

The London Anti-Racism Collaboration for Health (LARCH), Health Innovation Network and Race Equality Foundation hosted their Annual Conference and Learning Event, bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, and community advocates dedicated to dismantling systemic racism in health and social care.

Setting the Stage: A Call for Change

The event was chaired by Dame Marie Gabriel, a pioneering advocate for equity in the NHS. Kicking off with opening remarks from Dr. Debbie Weekes-Bernard, Deputy Mayor for Communities & Social Justice, the conference established a clear message: structural racism in healthcare is a pressing issue that demands systemic solutions.

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“Listen to Me” – A Carer’s Plea Turned into Song

Caring for someone with a mental illness is an emotional, often isolating experience. Unpaid carers—whether they are family members, friends, or loved ones—carry immense responsibility, yet their voices can feel unheard, especially within the healthcare system.

One of my poem’s “On Being Heard” taken from my book The Poetry Book of Mental Health Caring, captures this struggle with raw honesty.

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Balancing Faith and Care: Navigating Mental Health Challenges for Black Carers

Understanding the Role of Faith and Spirituality in Caregiving

Caregiving is often seen as an act of love and dedication, where individuals selflessly care for loved ones dealing with long-term physical or mental health issues. For many, the journey of caregiving can be particularly challenging, filled with emotional, physical, and psychological hurdles. However, one essential aspect often intertwined in this journey, especially for black carers, is faith and spirituality.

To watch the video lecture by Matthew McKenzie, click the video below

The Intersection of Faith, Spirituality, and Caregiving

Faith and spirituality can significantly influence those who are unpaid carers or caregivers, particularly within minority communities. Whether through organized religious beliefs, church communities, or personal spirituality, faith can provide strength, resilience, and coping mechanisms essential for caregivers.

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Ethnic mental health Carer Forum Update February 2025

The National Ethnic Mental Health Carer Forum convened to discuss the ongoing challenges faced by minority carers in accessing mental health services. The meeting focused on strategies to improve cultural competence, equitable treatment, and accessibility within mental health care systems. A key topic was the Patient and Carer Race Equality Framework (PCREF), with organizations sharing their experiences and plans for implementation. Additionally, the discussion covered language barriers, education initiatives, and the role of co-production in fostering inclusive care.

Mental Health act research

Dr Judy, a researcher from the University of Bristol, discussed her ongoing project on the nearest relative provision in the Mental Health Act and the need for co-produced resources to support those in this role. She also mentioned the support from charitable organizations like Mind and Rethink.

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