The Community Development Programme has been commissioned by NHS Norfolk to improve access, experiences and outcomes for people BME (Black & Minority Ethnic) mental health service users. The service is delivered in partnership with West Norfolk Mind.

The Community Development Workers (CDW) have four key functions:

• Change Agent: by identifying gaps in services and developing innovative practice

• Service Developer: by promoting joint working, education and training

• Capacity Builder: by helping to strengthen BME networks and skills

• Access Facilitator: by improving access to existing services by helping to overcome cultural and language barriers

CDW's can help BME clients, individuals and groups by:

• Developing more culturally appropriate and sensitive services for your community

• Effecting changes in the services you access

• Helping you to gain access to services

• Helping you to learn more about mental health and wellbeing

• Working with other service providers

• Accessing interpreter services on your behalf

• Helping you to feedback and improve the services that you use

• Providing you with information on mental health and wellbeing in your language

CDW's can help service providers, health professionals and support / link workers by:

• Helping you to improve your cultural competency

• Helping you to improve the service you offer to BME clients

• Helping you to engage with BME communities

• Increasing the number of BME clients using your service

• Teaching you about the healthcare and other needs of BME communities