Teams across Walsall Healthcare have supported Black History Month celebrations bringing them to a close in style today.

Black History Month (BHM) is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of black people to society and to the NHS. It also serves as an opportunity to inspire and empower future generations.

This year’s theme is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, and has focused on correcting historical inaccuracies, showcasing the success stories, and highlighting the full complexity of black heritage.

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Team, in collaboration with UNISON, hosted a variety of events throughout the month such as:

• Black History Month display – Library and Knowledge Services gave staff access to a range of print and e-books exploring black history, culture and celebrations.
• Market stall events – Staff, patients and visitors were able to treat themselves to some ethnic jewellery, hair and beauty products, food and more from local businesses.
• Men’s Mental Health webinar – Richard Anderson, Health and Social Care Professional and Educator, specialising in mental health, joined staff to discuss this year’s BHM theme and the importance of men’s mental health.
• BHM night visits – UNISON and the BAME Staff Network Committee visited night shift staff at the hospital and in community sites to distribute presentation packs and snacks.

And today, staff, patients and visitors enjoyed a Caribbean vibe with music from Mighty Jamma, steel pan drummer. UNISON organised for catering company ‘Adassa’s Catering’ to come to the Manor Hospital and provide staff with a Caribbean cuisine lunch.

Angela Cope, Staff Network and EDI Manager, said: “BHM is so important because it recognises and celebrates the contributions of Black people. It also helps to educate people about Black history and culture, and to create a more respectful and anti-racist society.”

Caroline Walker, Interim Group Chief Executive, added: “I’ve enjoyed joining staff to celebrate BHM and to listen and learn about people’s experiences. Black staff make up a good proportion of our diverse workforce and we value their contribution – it is important that we also celebrate the wider contribution they have made to the NHS and society.”