CULTURALLY sensitive mental health care was launched at a Black History Month celebration last week.

The scheme, run by Brent Mental Health Service, will see residents from ethnic minority groups given traditional food and time to pray as part of their care plans during hospital stays.

The project also provides opportunities for patients to become more active, taking part in hobbies like African drumming.

Elaine Singaram, a ward manager, said the initiative also involves staff looking at ways to embrace their own culture and bring it into their work.

She said: “We are also looking at people's backgrounds, their aspirations and their experiences when we consider how we can support them in their care planning once they are at the recovery stage.”

There are thought to be more people with mental health needs within ethnic minority communities, and community groups will be involved in the project as Brent Council seeks to understand why this is.

The scheme was launched at the Brent Mental Health Service annual Black History Month Celebration on Thursday.

Councillor Jim O'Sullivan, mayor of Brent, said: “People from Ireland, the West Indies and the rest of the world came to this country in the 50s and 60s and they played their part in every walk of life.

“We owe those people who gave so much to this country to give back something when they need help.

“From listening to people today I can certainly see that the work this unit is doing for service users is fantastic.”