Advances in Psychiatric Treatment (2008) 14: 326-329. doi: 10.1192/apt.bp.107.004986
© 2008 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
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Delivering race equality in mental health services

Annie Lau

Annie Lau is a child and adolescent psychiatrist with North East London Mental Health NHS Trust (Goodmayes Hospital, Ilford, Essex IG3 8YB, UK. Email: annie.lau{at}djpconsulting.co.uk). She has been active in cross-cultural psychiatry for the past 30 years, with pioneering work in transcultural family therapy in the UK. In recent years she has concentrated on training clinical teams and trust boards in race and cultural competencies. She was Medical Director, North East London Mental Health Trust from 2001 to 2005, and Medical Advisor, National Specialist Services Commissioning Advisory Group, Department of Health in 2006. She is currently on the Public Policy Committee at the World Psychiatric Association and the Workforce Symposium.

Abstract

‘Delivering race equality’ is a 5-year action plan for tackling race inequalities in mental healthcare in England and Wales, based on the main themes of improved services, better community engagement and better information. The perception is that clinical teams have not been sufficiently engaged with the plan and progress is slow. This article shares insights from the author’s work across government departments over the past 2 years and explores the potential for linking up different initiatives across the patient care pathway in support of the plan’s delivery. A summary of conclusions from a pilot survey of consultant psychiatrists, commissioned by the Department of Health in June 2007, addresses the main controversial areas in the action plan, with suggestions for improvement. Areas for clinical engagement are identified that exploit new funding, investment and policy initiatives. Examples of good practice are offered.