Success: Our Intercultural Therapeutic Support Project

Nafsiyat has embarked on a three-year collaboration with the National Lottery Community Fund starting June 2023: our Intercultural Therapeutic Support Project. This partnership aims to develop a community-based psychotherapy model for those facing acute mental distress who are not currently accessing mental health support and are marginalised due to their race, cultural background, or status as refugees or asylum seekers. By working with four strategic partners, we aim to expand our services and support a wider community. In a recent independent evaluation, Healthwatch Islington partnered with Nafsiyat to assess the effectiveness of the project.

Client Feedback

The evaluation revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback from clients. Participants reported feeling supported, understood, and appreciated the practical advice provided by their therapists. The ability to communicate in their mother tongue significantly enhanced their therapeutic experience.

One client shared, "My therapist spoke both languages, so I could use different metaphors. They didn’t have an issue with me switching languages."

Another noted, "I prefer to speak with a woman who understands my background, culture, and faith. Speaking in my mother tongue meant I knew she really understood me."

Access and Referral Process

Clients found the referral process straightforward and valued the consistent updates. Clear communication and the welcoming nature of our staff were highly appreciated. The flexibility of the service, including the option for online sessions, was also praised. One client expressed, "Nafsiyat made it easy and smooth and took the anxiety and worry away, and the counsellor didn’t take time [to get back to me], she was so responsive and gave me the time and date and was on time."

Impact on Clients

Participants reported significant personal benefits from the support they received. They felt calmer, had more positive interactions with family, and were better at recognising when they needed help. The safe and understanding environment enabled clients to speak openly about their experiences.

Building Trust and Reducing Stigma

A significant aspect of the project is building trust within the communities. By embedding Nafsiyat’s services within community hubs and working with respected local organisations, the project reduces the stigma around seeking mental health support. Community partners act as liaisons, ensuring that the services are seen as safe and reliable.

Our Partners

The core of Nafsiyat's project lies in its collaborative approach, working closely with trusted community partners. This model is built on the understanding that effective mental health support requires deep-rooted connections within the community. By partnering with organisations that have established relationships with their communities, Nafsiyat can deliver services in a more culturally sensitive and accessible manner. Nafsiyat has partnered with four organisations in North London to enhance our outreach and support:

• Islington Bangladesh Association (IBA)

  • Background: Established in 1984, IBA supports Bangladeshi families in Islington, offering activities and advice sessions to improve quality of life and health awareness.

  • Role in Project: IBA helps Nafsiyat reach the Bangladeshi community, facilitating engagement and building trust for mental health support.

• Hopscotch Women’s Centre

  • Background: Hopscotch provides advocacy, advice, and education for women facing racial inequality and abuse, with a focus on South East Asian women.

  • Role in Project: Hopscotch collaborates with Nafsiyat to offer culturally tailored mental health services to women in their community, fostering a safe and supportive environment.

• Elizabeth House Community Centre

  • Background: A multi-purpose community centre in Highbury, Elizabeth House offers services and activities for residents of all ages and backgrounds.

  • Role in Project: Elizabeth House provides a venue for Nafsiyat’s outreach sessions and helps connect with a diverse group of residents, enhancing service visibility and accessibility.

• Kurdish Advice Centre (KAC)

  • Background: KAC supports the Kurdish and Turkish-speaking communities in North London, offering housing advice, educational classes, and social activities.

  • Role in Project: KAC partners with Nafsiyat to address mental health needs within the Kurdish community, using their established trust and engagement.

Nafsiyat's Intercultural Therapeutic Support Project is a testament to the power of collaboration in delivering culturally competent mental health services. By working closely with trusted community partners, Nafsiyat ensures that mental health support is accessible, effective, and tailored to the needs of marginalised communities. The success of this project highlights the importance of community-based approaches in addressing mental health disparities.