What the leaders learned and shared
In October 2025, more than 60 people came together for a peer research showcase event. The leaders shared what they learned from speaking with residents, the biggest barriers their communities face, ideas to improve access to support, and what smaller community organisations need to grow. People taking part included partners from the council, NHS and voluntary sector.
What needs to change
Three clear priorities were identified by leaders and residents:
- better funding – long-term and flexible support that helps groups develop and grow
- access to community spaces – fair access to venues, clear booking systems and support from landlords when needed
- shared decision-making – decisions made with communities, not for them, including using lived experience to shape services
What the peer research found
The trained peer researchers listened to stories shared by black residents about their experiences. Findings were shared through posters and summaries, with many common themes identified. The insights will help local services improve support for black communities in the borough.
Research topics included:
- Gus Anorijebe representing Westside Radio: How the media sector can ensure accountability from health service providers in addressing health disparities experienced by black African and Caribbean communities in the borough
Westside Radio peer research poster - Margaret Nyuydzewira representing CAWOGIDO: The social, cultural and systemic factors that impact black women’s health in the borough
CAWOGIDO peer research poster - Atlyn Forde representing Communicate Inclusively: The financial, social and wellbeing impacts of workplace exclusion for black and minoritised residents in the borough which identifies changes needed to promote inclusive employment practices
Communicate Inclusively peer research poster - Christal Douglas representing Descendants: Explores whether black African and Caribbean communities in the borough feel their voices are heard or neglected within the healthcare system, examining how this affects the quality of care they receive
Descendants peer research poster - Daha Elmi representing ESWCA: Explores the social and health impacts of female genital mutilation (FGM) on Somali women in the borough and seeks to inform and influence policy responses
ESWCA peer research poster - Kaisan Ikomi representing HSENA: Explores how cultural perceptions and stigma influence the likelihood of black African and Caribbean communities in the borough seeking mental health support
HSENA peer research poster - Anne-Marie Waugh representing RollaDome All Skate: Explores the experiences of black women leaders and the health impacts of organisational harm encountered while navigating and leading within inequitable systems
RollaDome All Skate peer research poster - Dr Ahmed Herzi representing Voices for SEND Support Network: Examines how culturally grounded, community-based approaches can support Somali fathers in the borough to more effectively support the mental health and SEND needs of their children
Voices for SEND Support Network peer research poster - Victoria Lynch representing Zebra Sports: Explores whether the free provision of quality gymnastics activities enhances the physical health and wellbeing of young participants and families from the borough's diverse black African and Caribbean communities
Zebra Sports peer research poster