Policy Connect hosted a Westminster Symposium with Manchester Metropolitan University to discuss the findings of the ImprovE-ACT research project on the experiences of Black men detained under the Mental Health Act.

Funded by the National Institute for Health Research, the ImprovE-ACT project has collaborated with individuals directly affected by the Act, as well as police forces, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, to explore how to reduce detention rates and improve experiences.

According to NHS England, Black British men are four times more likely to be involuntarily detained under the Mental Health Act. They are also eight times more likely to face excessive restrictions through Community Treatment Orders.

The ImprovE-ACT project included a series of interviews and roundtables with Black men who had experienced detainment under the Act expressing the impact of racism and mental illness, and the need for reform that implements changes to ‘power, injustice, biases in assessment, and inpatient experience’.

Manchester Metropolitan University’s research supported by Policy Connect has identified several key themes that have contributed to the frequently adverse provision of mental health services for Black men. Recommendations for reform will be unveiled at a reception in Manchester on 21 May.

The Westminster Symposium was chaired by Lord Bradley, with Shadow Mental Health Minister, Abena Oppong-Asare MP, delivering a keynote speech.

After insights from several experts, the symposium featured a lively discussion with contributions from parliamentarians, healthcare professionals, and individuals with lived experience.

Highlighting how systematic racism and historical injustices have accentuated stigma’s surrounding Black men’s mental health, participants considered the importance of systematic and legislative reform that delivers equitable access to care by prioritising transparency, effective communication, and humanised, culturally competent mental health support.

The Symposium featured contributions from:

• Jasmin Adebisi, Policy Connect.
• Dr Lade Smith CBE, The Royal College of Psychiatrists.
• Dr Colin King OBE.
• Steven Gilbert OBE, NHS Race and Health Observatory.
• Peter Alleyne, Rethink Mental Illness.
• Dr Caroline Leah, The Manchester Metropolitan University.

For more information on the ImprovE-Act project, please contact jasmin.adebisi [at] policyconnect.org.uk (jasmin[dot]adebisi[at]policyconnect[dot]org[dot]uk).