A new report exploring experiences of accessing mental health support within Black communities in Leeds has been published through a partnership between Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service (LMWS) and Afrikindness.

The report, Breaking Barriers: Understanding Access to Mental Health Support in Black Communities in Leeds, brings together feedback from community members and highlights a range of factors that can influence how people access and engage with mental health services.

The findings identify a number of recurring themes, including awareness of available support, trust in services, stigma surrounding mental health, representation, and the importance of community-based engagement. The report also sets out recommendations to help inform future work aimed at improving experiences and reducing inequalities in access to mental health support.

The project was developed through engagement with members of Black communities across Leeds, providing an opportunity for people to share their experiences, perspectives and suggestions for how services can better meet their needs.

Dr Terrence Isaacs, Mental Health Lead at Afrikindness, said:

"This report provides valuable insight into the experiences of Black communities in Leeds and the factors that can influence access to mental health support. By listening to community voices, we can help shape more culturally appropriate approaches that build trust, improve engagement and reduce inequalities."

Beth Stepan, Health Equity and Coproduction Lead at Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service, said:

"It has been a pleasure working alongside Afrikindness and learning from the important work they do to support Black communities in Leeds. Our Health Equity Action Plan prioritises championing anti-racist practice and ensuring our service is welcoming, inclusive and accessible to all. Conducting this research with Afrikindness has helped identify additional steps we can take towards these goals. As always, the most meaningful improvements come from listening to the voices and experiences of our communities."

The publication of the report represents an important step in understanding community experiences and identifying opportunities for continued collaboration between health services, voluntary sector organisations and local communities.

The full report is available to read here.

Need support?

Visit Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service at www.leedsmentalwellbeingservice.co.uk  to learn more about available support and self-referral options.

Community organisations interested in working with us can contact: lmwscoproduction@touchstonesupport.org.uk