Young people with mental health problems in Nottingham have come together to celebrate Black History Month.
Young Diverse Minds, an outreach service run by charity Family First supports people aged 16-30 from African, Caribbean, Asian or dual heritage cultures, who have mental health issues.
It marked the end of Black History Month with a special event for people who use its services and their carers, at its ‘Social Space’ at the Croft, on Albert Road.
The afternoon included African drumming workshops and traditional African, Caribbean, Asian and Iranian food reflecting the heritage of the young people.
Black History Month has been celebrated across the UK every October for over 30 years to highlight the achievements of the black community and heighten the awareness of black people to their cultural heritage.
Sally Simnett, Project Manager at Family First said: “Young Diverse Minds wanted to celebrate the different cultures of the young people who use our services.
“Having a sense of identity – who we are – is extremely important for everyone, but for people with mental health problems, it takes on an even greater significance.
“Black History Month gives the young people we work with the opportunity to reflect on what makes them who they are, and as a society gives us the chance to celebrate their achievements.”
Since moving to its new, larger base at the Croft earlier this year, Young Diverse Minds has launched the Social Space where people who use its outreach services can make new friends, take part in discussion groups and join in social activities.
Sally Simnett added: “We wanted to create a place where individuals, who are often quite isolated, would have the opportunity to socialise and meet others with similar experiences.
‘The Social Space builds structure into their week, gives people something to look forward to and provides a safe environment where they can build relationships and improve their confidence.”
Imran Oppal, a Young Diverse Minds user, said: “I am disabled and haven’t been well, so I enjoy coming to the Social Space to meet new people.”
Daniel Bissessar, another member, commented: “I enjoy the company of the staff and other young people at the Social Space. It’s a lot of fun.”
Young Diverse Minds works in partnership with Nottinghamshire Healthcare Trust’s Early Intervention in Psychosis Team to run the sessions each week. Mike Cook, Chief Executive of Nottinghamshire Healthcare Trust, also joined them for the Black History celebrations.
Family First is part of the LHA-ASRA housing and regeneration group. As well as mental health services, the charity also provides affordable housing, childcare, accommodation for teenage parents and a furniture recycling service.