In the recent Opening Doors to Brain Workout initiative, Mental Health Matters Wales, alongside Versha Sood and Gabriel Mandal, proudly partnered with various organisations to co-produce a series of tailored engagements aimed at reaching underrepresented communities. This initiative highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion, bringing together individuals from all backgrounds to engage in meaningful conversations about dementia.
Research has shown that Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities often face barriers to accessing dementia services. This initiative sought to break down these barriers by meeting communities where they are and building trust. Rather than viewing these communities as “hard to reach,” we recognised the importance of listening, co-producing solutions, and tailoring engagement to meet specific needs.
Mental Health Matters Wales would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all of our partners who made this initiative a success:
Cardiff and Vale Regional Partnership Board, led by Versha Sood, Dementia Improvement and Development Manager. Versha’s leadership has been instrumental in steering the initiative and ensuring its impact.
Hindu Cultural Association, for generously providing the venue and services for the events.
Alzheimer’s Society, for your unwavering support in raising dementia awareness and developing inclusive services.
Platform/Effro, for fostering essential community connections.
Cardiff Local Authority, for sustaining the Chai Club with regular funding and outreach.
Ethnic Minority Research Advisory Group, for your valuable contributions to addressing BAME community needs.
Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST), for your ongoing support in the collaboration.
A special thank you to Gabriel Mandal from Mental Health Matters Wales for his dedication and proactive involvement. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Versha Sood for her pivotal role as Dementia Improvement and Development Manager at Cardiff and Vale Regional Partnership Board, whose commitment has been crucial to the initiative’s success.
Looking Ahead:
This initiative has been more than just a series of events—it has laid the foundation for lasting relationships that will continue to uplift communities across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan. We are proud of what we have achieved together and look forward to future collaborations.
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Thank you to everyone involved for your dedication to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
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