Cultural capability programme recognised at HSJ Awards
We are delighted to have been shortlisted for the NHS Race Equality Award at the HSJ Awards 2026, recognising our work to build a more culturally capable workforce and improve care for people from racially minoritised communities.
The shortlisted programme was developed through our Ethnicity and Mental Health Improvement Project (EMHIP) and co-produced with people with lived experience, community members and staff. It was created in response to feedback highlighting the need for training that goes beyond awareness and gives staff practical skills to provide culturally responsive, anti-racist care.
The programme combines interactive e-learning with face-to-face workshops co-facilitated by lived experience contributors. Using real-life scenarios, the workshops help staff explore challenging conversations, reflect on their practice and build confidence in responding to cultural and racial inequalities in mental health care.
Sixty staff members took part in the pilot programme. Within eight weeks of completing the training, 90% reported becoming more actively anti-racist in their practice, 67% had challenged bias or discrimination in the workplace, and 56% had adapted their communication style to better meet people's needs.
The programme has already led to changes in practice, including greater consideration of cultural needs in care planning, more open conversations about race and discrimination, and improved communication with patients and communities.
Dr Ranti Lawumi, Cultural Capability Programme Lead and Chair of our EVOLVE Staff Network, said: “Being part of the development and delivery of our cultural capability training programme has been incredibly rewarding, both as a clinician and as a woman of colour. Co-producing the programme with service users and staff has helped ensure it is meaningful, relevant and impactful, and it has been particularly inspiring to see people with lived experience feel heard, valued and empowered as “they contribute directly to the learning and development of our clinicians.
Developing culturally capable practice is a continuous journey. While it is important to reflect on why change has sometimes taken time, we should also recognise and celebrate the progress we have made. Every step forward helps us create services where people feel understood, respected and supported”
Adele Kendrick, Head of Learning, OD and Development, said: "We're incredibly proud to be shortlisted for this national award. This programme was built through genuine partnership with people with lived experience, our communities and staff, and their voices have shaped every stage of the work.
“The results show that when we create space for honest reflection, learning and dialogue, we can help staff build the confidence and skills needed to provide more culturally responsive care. While there is still more to do, this recognition is a testament to everyone who has contributed to creating a fairer and more inclusive organisation."
The winners will be announced at the HSJ Awards ceremony in London on 19 November 2026.
