Across Greater London, the mosaic of diverse communities is one of its greatest strengths. However, within this tapestry lies a stark reality – historic health inequalities disproportionately affecting the Black Caribbean & African. COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly made acutely visible the state of poor health in the Black Caribbean & African which contributed to excessive death rates compared to what was evidenced across the white community. Acknowledging the urgent need for change led to the coproduced development of the inspire programme.  

“inspire” is a ground-breaking programme which was specifically developed to raise awareness and promote targeted health interventions aimed at reducing disparities faced by Black people in London. The development involved working closely with the Black Caribbean & African leaders and health professionals to explore an asset-based approach to mobilising the community and improve health outcomes. 

This inspire programme is dedicated to promoting health equity and empowering the Black Caribbean & African across Greater London. The 8 Boroughs Project was the pilot phase in 2021. There is a body of academic and community research that highlights how poor health outcomes can be avoided if institutional and structural racism could be dealt with head-on. “inspire” would galvanise and amplify the voice of Black Caribbean and African community groups in championing calls for improvements to the health and wellbeing of Black Londoners.  

Black Caribbean & African is keen to play an active role and engage the wider systems that influence health and wellbeing outcomes. The inspire programme will seek to enhance current initiatives addressing health inequalities faced by the Black Caribbean & African within all 32 boroughs in London. This programme would promote collaboration and sharing good practice highlighting models of engagement improving overall health and wellbeing. We would utilise strong communications within and across Local Authorities, Integrated Care Systems (ICS), primary and acute care, NHS partners, businesses, and more importantly the Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise sector (powered by Black community, faith, and health professionals). 

For further information please email hello@inspireblackhealth.london