In communities affected by deep-rooted deprivation and health inequalities, engagement with formal services is often limited. Stigma, systemic mistrust, and past experiences of exclusion can all create barriers that prevent people from accessing the support they need — especially when it comes to mental health and social care.

We worked with local partners to build and implement engagement strategies tailored to the realities of these communities. This meant spending time on the ground, listening to people’s experiences, and co-designing solutions that felt accessible and relevant. We trained community champions, established trust-building outreach programmes, and worked with service providers to ensure feedback from marginalised groups shaped policy and practice.

The result was a measurable increase in referrals to specialist services from underrepresented groups, improved relationships between providers and the communities they serve, and greater confidence among professionals in delivering inclusive care. Crucially, the work didn’t stop at consultation — it translated into action, helping services become more equitable, responsive, and trusted.