Ethnic minorities communities' access to mental healthcare in Tower Hamlets

Healthwatch Tower Hamlets undertook research on access to mental health care among ethnic minority communities in the borough. They analysed 40 comments relating to mental health services collected between January 2021 and January 2023, including feedback gathered through wider North East London Covid-19 insight work. 

The feedback suggested that people from ethnic minority communities often faced difficulties accessing mental health support, particularly through telephone and online systems. Many respondents reported challenges obtaining appointments, concerns about remote consultations, feeling that professionals were not listening to them, and difficulties accessing timely support during periods of poor mental health. Several people said they would have preferred face-to-face contact with professionals. 

The report identified particular barriers for Somali communities. Feedback gathered through the Women's Inclusive Team suggested that stigma around mental health and fears about children being taken into care could discourage people from seeking help. Some individuals reported turning to religious leaders for support because of greater trust and easier communication, which could mean mental health conditions were not always recognised or treated within healthcare services. 

Healthwatch Tower Hamlets concluded that people from minority ethnic backgrounds can struggle to access mental health services and that trust remains a significant issue. The report highlighted the need for more culturally appropriate communication, stronger engagement with communities, and approaches that build trust and improve access to mental health support for ethnic minority residents.