Health Resources
Access to care
Access to care
Ensuring access to culturally competent healthcare is vital. This includes finding providers who understand and respect diverse cultural backgrounds and the specific health challenges faced by Black communities.
Black Women’s Health & Family Support (BWHAFS): Based in London, BWHAFS provides support, advice, and information to promote the physical and mental health of Black women and their families. They offer services such as counselling, health awareness workshops, and advocacy support.
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FORWARD (Foundation for Women’s Health Research and Development): An African women-led organization working to end violence against women and girls, FORWARD addresses issues like female genital mutilation and child marriage. They provide support services and advocate for the health and rights of African women and girls in the UK.
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Black Minds Matter UK: This charity connects Black individuals and families with free mental health services provided by professional Black therapists, aiming to make mental health support more accessible and relevant for the Black community in the UK.
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The Health Collective: An initiative by Wellbeing of Women, The Health Collective tackles health inequalities for women from marginalized communities, including Black women, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support.
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Black Women’s Health & Wellbeing Research Network: Established to promote the health and well being of Black women through research and knowledge exchange, this network provides resources and evidence on Black women’s health in the UK and beyond.
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CAHN: https://www.cahn.org.uk/ – The Caribbean & African Health Network (CAHN) is dedicated to eradicating health inequalities affecting Black Caribbean and African communities. Established in 2017, CAHN offers a broad range of health services and programmes, including health education, advocacy, and community support initiatives. Their mission is to ensure that service providers’ actions lead to racial and social justice for Black people.
FiveXmore: https://fivexmore.org/ – Five X More is a grassroots organisation dedicated to reducing disparities in maternal outcomes for Black women and birthing people in the UK. Through parliamentary lobbying, NHS recommendations, and empowering Black women to advocate for themselves during pregnancy and childbirth, they strive to address and eliminate these inequalities.
The Motherhood Group: Founded by Sandra Igwe, this social enterprise supports Black mothers by addressing disparities in maternal care, providing peer support, and working with healthcare providers to improve outcomes for Black women.
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Black Women Rising: https://www.blackwomenrisinguk.org/ – Black Women Rising, established in 2019 by Leanne Pero, is a UK-based cancer support project dedicated to empowering women of colour affected by cancer. Through peer-to-peer support groups, awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives, the organisation addresses the unique challenges faced by Black and minority ethnic communities in cancer care. Their mission is to educate, inspire, and connect women, fostering a community where stories can be shared without fear or shame.
For additional information – please check out this directory of Black-led community organisations working to improve the health and wellbeing of Black communities in the UK – curated by Dr Stephanie Ejegi-Memeh
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bn8d40R75wDYmNYcp1tFVbqvw-c9MbwwVUyslESRqOE/htmlview
Mental health resources
This section highlights mental health resources specifically designed for Black women in the UK, offering access to culturally sensitive care and support. From therapy services that prioritize your unique experiences to community groups fostering safe spaces for healing, these resources are here to help you navigate mental health challenges and prioritize your well-being.
1. Black Minds Matter UK
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form.
2. The Black, African, and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN)
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form or email.
3. Mind’s ‘Side by Side’ Community
- Website
- Contact: info@mind.org.uk | Tel: 0300 123 3393.
4. Black Female Therapists
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form.
5. Therapy for Black Girls
- Website
- Contact: Via website directory.
6. HERSANA
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form or email.
7. The Motherhood Group
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form or email.
8. Sistah Space
- Website
- Contact: Tel: 0203 490 4156 | info@sistahspace.org.
9. Black Women’s Health & Family Support (BWHAFS)
- Website
- Contact: Tel: 020 8539 8891 | admin@bwhafs.org.uk.
10. Forward UK
- Website
- Contact: Tel: 020 8960 4000 | forward@forwarduk.org.uk.
11. Adira
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form or email.
12. Black Learning Achievement and Mental Health (BLAM)
- Website
- Contact: info@blamcharity.co.uk.
13. Muslim Women’s Network UK (MWNUK)
- Website
- Contact: Tel: 0303 999 8672 | contact@mwnuk.co.uk.
14. Sandwell African Caribbean Mental Health Foundation (SACMHF)
- Website
- Contact: Tel: 0121 525 1629 | admin@sacmhf.co.uk.
15. Black Women’s Mental Health Project
- WeContact: Information not available online. Check local community directories or inquire through related organizations like BAATN.
bsite
16. Sista Afya
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form
17. Ethel’s Club
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form.
18. Melanin & Mental Health
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form.
19. Sad Girls Club
- Website
- Contact: Via website contact form.
20. Inclusive Therapists
- Website
- Contact: Via website directory.
Preventative care
From managing genetic predispositions to common conditions like hypertension and diabetes to guidance on early screenings for cervical and breast cancer, these guides are designed to empower Black women to take proactive steps toward their health and well-being. Explore practical tips, healthcare checklists, and expert advice to prioritize preventative care.
1. Blood Pressure Monitoring
- Practical Tip: Black women are at higher risk for hypertension. Use a home blood pressure monitor and reduce salt intake by avoiding processed foods.
- Checklist: Record readings weekly, maintain a diet rich in potassium (e.g., bananas, sweet potatoes), and exercise regularly.
- Expert Advice: If readings consistently exceed 140/90 mmHg, see your GP to discuss medication or lifestyle changes.
2. Cholesterol Level Assessment
- Practical Tip: Black women may have a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol. Incorporate heart-healthy foods like avocados, olive oil, and fish.
- Checklist: Test cholesterol levels every three years if under 40; annually if over 40 or with a family history of heart disease.
- Expert Advice: Advocate for cholesterol screening if you have a family history of early heart disease.
3. Type 2 Diabetes Screening
- Practical Tip: Black women are more prone to Type 2 diabetes. Limit sugar intake and prioritize low-glycemic foods like quinoa, lentils, and whole grains.
- Checklist: Schedule HbA1c (blood glucose) tests every 1-3 years. Monitor weight and waist circumference.
- Expert Advice: Discuss diabetes risk factors (e.g., family history, BMI) with your GP and ask for earlier testing if concerned.
4. Body Mass Index (BMI) Evaluation
- Practical Tip: BMI doesn’t fully account for body composition differences in Black women. Focus on waist-to-hip ratio as an additional metric.
- Checklist: Track BMI every six months. Aim for a waist circumference under 80 cm.
- Expert Advice: Discuss culturally tailored weight management programs with your GP.
5. Breast Cancer Screening
- Practical Tip: Black women are at higher risk of triple-negative breast cancer. Perform monthly self-exams and report any unusual changes.
- Checklist: Attend mammograms every three years from age 50, or earlier if there’s a family history.
- Expert Advice: Advocate for earlier screening if your GP is unaware of the heightened risks for Black women.
6. Cervical Cancer Screening
- Practical Tip: Attend your NHS cervical screening (smear test) appointments, even if you’re symptom-free.
- Checklist: Go every three years (ages 25-49) or every five years (ages 50-64).
- Expert Advice: If you’ve experienced fibroids or abnormal bleeding, request more frequent screenings.
7. Colorectal Cancer Screening
- Practical Tip: Black women have a slightly elevated risk of colorectal cancer. Increase fiber intake with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Checklist: Take the NHS bowel screening test every two years if aged 60-74.
- Expert Advice: Request a colonoscopy if you have symptoms like persistent abdominal pain or blood in stool.
8. Bone Density Test
- Practical Tip: Due to lower vitamin D levels in Black women, bone health may be compromised. Include fortified foods and supplements in your diet.
- Checklist: Ask for a DEXA scan if you’re post-menopausal or at risk for osteoporosis.
- Expert Advice: Weight-bearing exercises like yoga or strength training can improve bone density.
9. Eye Examination
- Practical Tip: Black women are at higher risk for glaucoma. Schedule eye tests every two years.
- Checklist: Look out for signs like blurred vision or difficulty focusing, especially as you age.
- Expert Advice: Ensure your optician is aware of the increased glaucoma risks for Black individuals.
10. Dental Check-ups
- Practical Tip: Gum disease is prevalent in some communities due to access barriers to dental care. Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice daily and floss.
- Checklist: Schedule cleanings and check-ups at least annually.
- Expert Advice: Discuss gum disease risks with your dentist and seek treatment early.
11. Skin Cancer Screening
- Practical Tip: Although rare, melanoma can occur in areas less exposed to the sun (e.g., palms, soles). Use moisturizers with SPF.
- Checklist: Check for dark spots or changes in moles, particularly on the palms and soles.
- Expert Advice: Report unusual skin changes promptly, as melanoma in Black individuals often goes undiagnosed until later stages.
12. STI Screening
- Practical Tip: Black women face stigma in accessing sexual health services. Seek out culturally sensitive clinics if possible.
- Checklist: Test for STIs, including HIV, annually or after unprotected intercourse.
- Expert Advice: Use NHS services or search for clinics offering privacy and cultural sensitivity.
13. Mental Health Evaluation
- Practical Tip: Black women face unique mental health stressors, including racism and societal pressures. Seek culturally competent therapy services.
- Checklist: Evaluate stress levels regularly and access mental health support like Black Minds Matter or BAATN.
- Expert Advice: Take time for self-care and consult your GP about counseling options if feeling overwhelmed.
14. Vaccinations
- Practical Tip: Ensure you’re up-to-date with vaccines like HPV, flu, and COVID-19, as vaccine uptake can be lower in Black communities.
- Checklist: Maintain a vaccine record and check NHS guidelines for recommended immunizations.
- Expert Advice: Discuss vaccine hesitancy with healthcare providers and make informed decisions.
15. Reproductive Health Check
- Practical Tip: Black women are more prone to conditions like fibroids and endometriosis. Track menstrual health and report abnormalities.
- Checklist: Schedule gynecological exams annually.
- Expert Advice: Ask for an ultrasound if you experience prolonged periods or pelvic pain.
16. Thyroid Function Test
- Practical Tip: Symptoms like fatigue or weight gain may indicate thyroid issues. Request thyroid tests if symptoms persist.
- Checklist: Check TSH levels during routine blood work.
- Expert Advice: Discuss family history of thyroid disorders with your GP.
17. Vitamin D Testing
- Practical Tip: Black skin synthesizes less vitamin D from sunlight. Take supplements, especially during UK winters.
- Checklist: Include fortified foods like milk and cereal in your diet.
- Expert Advice: Request a vitamin D test if experiencing fatigue or bone pain.
18. Kidney Function Test
- Practical Tip: Black women with hypertension or diabetes are at higher risk for kidney disease. Monitor blood pressure and sugar levels.
- Checklist: Ask for a kidney function test (eGFR) if you have these conditions.
- Expert Advice: Stay hydrated and limit processed food intake.
19. Liver Function Test
- Practical Tip: Alcohol and obesity increase liver disease risk. Reduce alcohol intake and maintain a healthy diet.
- Checklist: Request liver function tests if you experience jaundice or unexplained fatigue.
- Expert Advice: Limit saturated fats and sugars to support liver health.
20. Hearing Test
- Practical Tip: Black women may overlook hearing issues. Schedule a test if experiencing tinnitus or hearing loss.
- Checklist: Test every three years if over 50.
- Expert Advice: Protect hearing by limiting exposure to loud noise and using ear protection.