The UK Inquiry into Mental Health and Well-Being in Later Life

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Focus groups with black and minority ethnic (BME) older people

In February and March 2005, the Inquiry held a series of focus groups with older people (and a few professionals) from black and minority ethnic (BME) communities.  The focus groups were held in Leicester, Birmingham and London. 

Over 40 people from a range of different backgrounds participated.  The discussions drew out many issues, including the positive impact of visits to one's country of origin, the potentially negative impact of family relations, and the importance of faith and spirituality.

The groups' discussions helped to inform the Inquiry's recommendations for Stage 1 of its work.  We hope that the reports will also be useful to others who want to know more about what helps to promote good mental health and well-being for older people from BME communities.

  • Click here to download the reports(this link will take you to another page)

Thanks to the facilitators:

  • Jane Esuantsiwa Goldsmith of
  • Anona Development Consultancy
  • Sue Vahid, freelance consultant

And to those who helped to organise the groups:

  • Claire Ball of the
  • BME Elders Forum
  • Troy Young at
  • Age Concern Leicestershire & Rutland
  • Tariq Somra at
  • Age Concern Birmingham