Synergi Collaborative Centre
www.nesta.org.uk/feature/new-radicals-2018/synergi-collaborative-centre/
www.nesta.org.uk/feature/new-radicals-2018/synergi-collaborative-centre/
Five-year initiative to understand and tackle the inequalities faced by ethnic minorities living with severe mental illness
Date started: November 2018
Website: synergicollaborativecentre.co.uk
Twitter handle: @synergicc
Location: London
The Synergi Collaborative Centre was established to combat the unfairness experienced by ethnic minorities living with severe mental illness, such as being more likely to enter the criminal justice system or experience inequalities in their pathways to care.
Professor Kamaldeep Bhui, director of Synergi Collaborative Centre, speaks at launch event. Photo courtesy of Oliver Barrett
It’s a national initiative, funded by Lankelly Chase and run in partnership between Queen Mary University of London, the University of Manchester and Words of Colour Productions.
The principle behind the initiative is to combine high quality scientific evidence with shared stories and creative responses from individuals living with severe mental illness. Synergi employs the principles of co-production using a mix of research methods and working closely with health commissioners, policymakers and those experiencing mental health issues themselves.
Call Me Unique sings at Synergi Collaborative Centre launch event. Photo courtesy of Oliver Barrett
Director Professor Kamaldeep Bhui says: “Historically, we haven’t listened to the public enough and that’s probably why we haven’t had good enough traction on this issue despite the strong evidence.
“People’s personal stories are the most powerful part of the literature. We’re using creative methods to help them share their stories alongside the scientific evidence.”
