Amplifying voices to tackle inequalities in South Asian and Muslim communities

Posted by Zeibeda Sattar, Assistant Professor in Health Policy, Northumbria University

L-R: Greta Defeyter, Humaira Khan and Zeb Sattar 

I recently had the opportunity to chair the Health Inequalities Symposium hosted by the Centre for Health and Social Equity (CHASE) at Northumbria University, in collaboration with Fuse. It was an incredible event that brought together over 100 people, including researchers, policymakers, healthcare providers, and community members, all focused on tackling the pressing health challenges facing South Asian and Muslim (SAM) communities. The main goal was clear: to find ways to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact.

The presentations were enlightening and underscored how critical it is to engage with minority communities effectively to shape public health services. Each speaker highlighted a different, but equally important, health issue impacting SAM communities. Public partner Humaira Khan, who co-chaired the symposium, pointed out that the mental health challenges facing South Asian and Muslim are often misunderstood and stigmatised. Hearing her talk about the need for culturally competent healthcare really hit home. Her words - “researchers are warriors; they don’t fight for themselves - they amplify the voices of the people” - perfectly captured why events like this matter.

“researchers are warriors; they don’t fight for themselves - they amplify the voices of the people” 

Humaira Khan, public partner

Dr Sarah Croke from the University of Manchester spoke about the language and cultural barriers that often lead to untreated health issues. This can leave community members struggling because healthcare services aren’t designed with South Asian and Muslim needs in mind. Dr Saeed Ahmed from Sunderland Royal Hospital took on the tough topic of organ donation disparities. He pointed out the harsh reality: SAM communities are in desperate need of organ transplants but are also among the least likely to donate. His call to raise awareness and educate was powerful, especially when he reminded us that one donor can change up to nine lives.

There were also discussions about everyday barriers that many of us face but rarely see addressed. Professor Defeyter from Northumbria University talked about the lack of culturally appropriate meals, like halal options, in schools. It was a reminder of how even things like food choices can create a sense of exclusion for our children and why legal changes to recognise cultural diversity are long overdue.

I found Simon Luddington’s (SearchNewcastle) presentation about the West-End Befrienders project particularly inspiring. It’s easy to forget how isolating language barriers can be and how vital social connections are for our wellbeing. Their work in bringing people together, especially in helping with access to primary care and breaking down isolation, felt like a model that should be replicated.

One of the more challenging discussions was around drug and alcohol use in our communities. Lydia Lochhead’s (Northumbria University) research laid bare the stigma that prevents so many from seeking help. It’s a tough conversation to have, but hearing about Mushtaq Dakri’s community-led approach to addiction support was a beacon of hope. They offer a holistic service - combining therapy, physical activity, and spirituality - and it’s designed by and for the SAM community. Knowing there’s a women-only support space now available shows their commitment to evolving and meeting community needs.

Fuse Associate Director Dr Floor Christie and Dr Rawand Jarrar from Sunderland University, wrapped up the day with their work on improving cancer screening uptake among Muslim women. Their workshops have reached over 260 women, and it’s encouraging to see how culturally sensitive approaches can genuinely improve health outcomes. This was a reminder of how vital it is to build services that reflect our communities.

As I reflect on the symposium, it’s clear to me that these health inequalities are not just about accessing services - they’re about how these services are designed and delivered. The urgency to address these gaps cannot be overstated. The event reinforced the need for services that truly understand and respect South Asian and Muslim communities, going beyond just offering a service to creating environments where people feel welcomed, understood, and valued.

Leaving the symposium, I felt hopeful. Change is possible, but it won’t happen without consistent engagement with our communities. Trust needs to be built, and community voices must be represented and acted upon. The gap between research and impact can be bridged if we keep pushing for culturally relevant, accessible, and respectful health services.

Plans are already in place for a follow-up symposium in November, focusing once again on the health inequalities that continue to affect SAM communities. I urge everyone to get involved. This is our chance to be part of the change and to make our voices heard in the ongoing fight for a more equitable health system. Sign-up details will be shared soon, and I hope to see more of us there - because turning these conversations into action is how we create a healthier future for all of us.