Minority ethnic communities encouraged to have say in ongoing project to make healthcare inclusive

Manchester Local Care Organisation has commissioned a social enterprise to raise awareness of health conditions in ethnic minority communities.

The project run by Freshrb CIC is called Neighbourhood Media Connects Health (NeMCoH).

A focus group will take place at Whitemoss youth club and community centre in Charlestown with free refreshments provided for participants willing to share their views to help influence positive change in their neighbourhood.

Residents who live in Charlestown, Higher Blackley, Harpurhey and members of minority ethnic groups are being encouraged to share their experiences of healthcare their community.

NeMCoH is aimed at learning more about minority ethnic communities within the neighbourhood in order for service providers to create more inclusive inclusive approach to the provision of services.

Happy New Year & Let’s make this year count

We have been commissioned to listen to the voices of ethnic minority groups in Harpurhey,Charlestown &Higher Blackley here in Manchester, to help inform a more #inclusive #healthcare.

Have your say https://t.co/F1f9ke8fJy#NeMCoH pic.twitter.com/2WkNATcYUO

— Freshrb C.I.C. (@FreshrbCIC) January 5, 2022

This project originated from the impact of Covid 19 which highlighted significant differences in how  ethnic minorities interact with healthcare services.

Kondwani Chirwa, director of Freshrb CIC, said: “It is about gaining understanding as to why there is a huge difference in interaction with the healthcare provisions.

“The first focus group was great. The residents interaction and involvement gave the opportunity for new themes to evolve which are very useful for what we are trying to achieve. This is about the voice of the community and what they have to share and as a team we are always open to learn.

“To encourage residents come have their say the focus groups are made  anonymous and confidential.

Yesterday, we hosted our first #NeMCoH focus group. It was extremely insightful speaking to and hearing from, people within the community. The conversations were rich and they’ve given us a lot to think about. We can’t wait to learn more! @mcrlco @MCRActive #InclusiveHealth pic.twitter.com/Ku70LlIQuZ

— Freshrb C.I.C. (@FreshrbCIC) January 20, 2022

“Whatever form of positive difference this project can bring is what is most important and that is only possible from the feedback and stories from people with their experience from the healthcare provisions in their localities.

“At the end of the day, those voices need to be heard to inspire change.

“The project runs in four stages with the focus groups being the first for people to have their say and impact the way healthcare providers can work for us. It will also include podcasts of people sharing their own experiences in health, sxhort documentaries and a summit event where we get decision makers and everyone in the community together to share what we’ve discovered, and to encourage at least two positive changes that healthcare providers can implement going forward.”

Click here for more information on the next focus groups and venue.