Tag Archives: Black Carers Mental Health

Latest poem from my book – Unpaid, Unseen and Yet Unbroken

By Matthew McKenzie, facilitator of National ethnic mental health carers forum

Welcome to my first blog for 2026.

I am working on a new poetry project linked to my forum and poetry groups. This poem turned into song is written from the perspective of an unpaid ethnic mental health carer, and explores identity, pride, self-worth, and refusing shame in systems that don’t always listen or recognise lived experience.

The poem is taken from my forthcoming poetry book in development,
Unpaid, Unseen and Yet Unbroken (due 2026), which centres the voices of ethnic mental health carers and aligns closely with the aims of PCREF (Patient and Carer Race Equality Framework), particularly around listening, inclusion, and lived experience shaping systems.

I’m using poetry and creative formats as another way to:

  • amplify carer voices
  • explore race and care with honesty
  • support conversations about equity, culture, and confidence in mental health services

If this resonates with your work, community, or organisation, please feel free to share.
Listening is an act of care.

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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