Are we Equally Connected? Michelle Lloyd Alawiyyah Abdulrahman

Equally Connected Action research Edinburgh and the Lothians 2 years Health Scotland and NHS Lothian funding Community development methods Partnership approach

Aims Learn from BME communities about their understanding of, and attitudes towards, mental health and wellbeing –BME Carers in rural area –Gypsy/Travellers –International students –Muslim women in semi- rural area –BME men in Edinburgh –Arabic speaking women

Test the assumptions underpinning the Integrated Care Pathway –people attend their GP; –can articulate their fears, concerns and symptoms, –the GP listens, understands and agrees with the patient an appropriate response To help ensure services are designed to meet diverse needs

Barriers Philosophical Differing constructs of illness Evidence based healthcare and MH tools

Emerging themes Impact of racism Isolation/exclusion –Self confidence –Effects on social integration Access to services/support -the gap

Therapy and Recovery Non pharmacological interventions – lack of awareness, suitability assumptions and therapeutic relationship Acknowledging and learning about other routes to recovery

Community Development Approach Listening and responding Overcoming barriers Participatory

What Next ? Ways to engage Research tools Change in focus – using evidence to recommend changes in services and revised ICP

For further information: Tel: