Promoting Emotional Wellbeing Among Global Majority Staff – Black Voice of Social Work Discussion Group
In our last discussion centred on “Promoting Emotional Wellbeing Among Global Majority Staff”, participants shared deeply personal experiences and reflected on the systemic barriers they face daily. The session highlighted critical challenges, the urgent need for change, and practical steps for fostering a more inclusive and supportive workplace.
The Reality of Everyday Racism
Many participants spoke of the relentless toll of experiencing racism, both overt and subtle, in their daily lives. One participant expressed, “Every day I walk out and wonder if I will be looked at on the bus or if I will be followed by security in a shop.” This constant vigilance leads to exhaustion, with many aggressions either minimised, internalised, or left unreported.
Systemic racism remains a significant challenge. As one participant noted, “Racism just exists systemically, and it is very, very hard to remove that.” This sentiment underscores the ongoing need to dismantle entrenched discriminatory structures within organisations.
Barriers to Wellbeing and Progression
Participants highlighted the lack of safe spaces within organisations where they could speak openly without fear of retaliation. Many felt unseen or unacknowledged, with one person sharing, “You are unseen as a Black person. Sometimes you can even go unacknowledged.”
Professional development opportunities were also identified as a key area of concern. Staff from global majorities are often subjected to additional scrutiny or told they are “not ready” for leadership roles, despite demonstrating their capabilities. “The amount of leadership training or courses that global majority staff are encouraged to complete… despite stepping up to support staff or demonstrating leadership characteristics,” one participant explained.
When discrimination is reported, participants often find themselves having to over-justify their experiences. “It is almost like I need to be surveyed,” one person remarked, emphasising the frustration of not being believed or taken seriously.
The Role of Mental Health and Stigma
Discussions also addressed the stigma surrounding mental health and the additional barriers this creates for global majority staff. The emotional labour of constantly advocating for change, combined with the fear of being labelled as aggressive or confrontational, compounds the challenges to maintaining wellbeing.
Suggestions for Change
Throughout the session, participants proposed several actionable steps to promote emotional wellbeing:
- Systemic Change:
Organisations must address racism at every level and implement processes that prevent trauma rather than simply responding to it.
“It needs to be acknowledged and addressed on all levels. There needs to be accountability.” - Creating Safe Spaces:
Establishing environments where staff feel safe to share their experiences without fear of retaliation is essential. - Representation in Leadership:
Increasing the presence of global majority individuals in leadership roles can inspire and empower staff while fostering a more inclusive culture. - Normalising Difficult Conversations:
Honest discussions about racism and microaggressions need to become a standard part of workplace culture. “It is going to be uncomfortable, but that’s the whole point.” - Strengthening Allyship and Accountability:
Allies must actively support global majority colleagues, and senior leadership must be visibly involved in driving change. “These forums are amazing, the conversations are great. But attendance from senior management is missing.”
Reflections and Gratitude
The session was a powerful reminder of the resilience and courage of global majority staff. Despite the systemic barriers and emotional labour involved, many remain committed to advocacy. As one participant stated, “As exhausted as I am, I never stop fighting.”
The discussion concluded with a shared sense of responsibility: creating meaningful change cannot be left solely to the global majority. Everyone, regardless of background, must play a role in fostering inclusive and supportive environments.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and bravely shared their experiences. Your voices are invaluable in the ongoing journey towards equality and wellbeing for all.
Resources:
- https://baatn.org.uk/
- Discrimination because of race
- Racism as a public mental health concern – The Collaborating Centre for Values-based practice in Health and Social Care
- Institutional Racism in the Culture of Psychiatry & Clinical Psychology – Suman Fernando
- Psychosis and Institutional Racism – Hári Sewell
- https://whatworks-csc.org.uk/research-report/anti-racism-survey-report/
- Anti Racism Survey Report – What Works for Children’s Social Care
- Mental health within the black community | Davonte Sanders-Funches | TEDxNorthCentralCollege
- Akala Expands On The Stigma of Mental Health In The Black Community (@AmaruDonTV) – YouTube