Mental health advocacy for black and minority ethnic users and carers

Over the last decade significant developments and debates have highlighted the disadvantages experienced by people who use mental health services.

This report provides a unique insight into how mental health advocacy has failed to reflect and address the specific needs of black and minority ethnic communities. It highlights persistent problems in mainstream services which position black service users on the margins with limited support; examines the reasons for the lack of advocacy development within the black voluntary sector; explores why advocacy is less accessible to black service users; and demonstrates examples of best practice.

The report concludes with recommendations and discusses the need to address a range of key issues such as access, language and communication, funding and implementation.