Cultural sensitivity is vital when working with underrepresented groups

As Community Development Coordinator, I lead on the equality and diversity agenda, ensuring that local organisations and community groups have access to the information and resources they need to develop services across the area.

In alignment with our Help and Hope Strategy, one of my primary focuses is reaching and making an impact on communities that seldomly receive dementia support, particularly those affected by health inequalities. I am especially committed to engaging with Caribbean and African communities, who often feel underrepresented and overlooked in a predominantly white British healthcare system.

Cultural sensitivity is vital when working with Caribbean and African families. It involves acknowledging and listening to each person’s unique experiences and recognising the challenges they face. By doing so, trust and mutual respect are fostered, leading to deeper, more meaningful engagement. Coming from a Caribbean background myself, I’m careful not to assume that everyone’s experiences are the same. I understand there are always subtle differences within the culture.

For example, when working with the older generation, many prefer to be addressed by their title rather than on a first-name basis, as this can be seen as overly familiar. In my culture, it’s common to refer to elders as ‘Aunty’ or ‘Uncle’ out of respect. While I don’t typically do this in a professional setting, I once worked with a 98-year-old service user who referred to me as her granddaughter. I took no offense, understanding that it meant she felt comfortable with me, even while maintaining a professional relationship. Similarly, some service users have referred to me as ‘Aunty’ or ‘Sis,’ which I’ve come to see as an expression of respect within the cultural context.

A tailored approach

Being proactive with people within black communities involves more than simply offering services. It means building trust, fostering relationships, and listening to the voices of individuals who may have experienced systemic exclusion or sometimes feel disconnected from society. It’s about creating an environment where they feel understood and valued. This can be achieved by tailoring services, language, and communication to be inclusive, as well as ensuring that stakeholders from these communities are involved in decision-making processes.

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Representation matters

If we are to have a meaningful impact it is essential that people of colour are represented throughout our organisation. This helps to build trust, understanding, and effective engagement. When individuals see someone from their own background working in a professional capacity, it helps to break down barriers and create a sense of relatability. Representation ensures that the unique experiences, values, and needs of the community are truly understood and respected.

One of my earliest service users burst into tears when he met me, saying he hadn’t expected to see someone of colour at the memory clinic. He was so relieved, and the moment brought many of us in the clinic to tears as well. It was a poignant reminder of the emotional turmoil people of colour can often experience when engaging with the healthcare system. The fear of being judged or not receiving the same level of care weighs heavily on their minds. That encounter really brought to life how significant it is for people of colour to feel seen, understood, and supported in these spaces.

Changing perceptions

During Dementia Action Week 2024, I successfully organised a community specific dementia awareness event in a local black led organisation frequented by Caribbean and African families. By partnering with them I was able to break down barriers and address cultural stigmas around dementia. This event not only led to larger future events with the same organisation, but it helped to increase the awareness of dementia within that organisation.? In our very first session, out of 30 participants, only three had heard of the Alzheimer’s Society, and one person mentioned that she thought it was an organisation for only white people. Collaborating with this organisation has enabled me to provide relevant education about dementia and inform attendees about local support services, such as benefits assistance. As a result, most participants now have a better understanding of both the Alzheimer’s Society and the disease itself.

Looking forward

I am currently actively involved in a research project with UCL, led by Nasim Minhas, our Head of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). The research focuses on evaluating the services we provide and determining if they are suitable for families from African and Caribbean backgrounds. The first workshop was phenomenal, and I am optimistic that we will gather tangible data to help us enhance our services and make them more inclusive and effective for these communities. This is an exciting and impactful piece of research, and I’m proud to be part of this important work.

#dmentiasupport #dementiaservices #blackhistorymonth