The Culturally Appropriate Advocacy Pilot (CAAP) was a Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) funded project delivered in partnership by Empower Consultants CIC, Gaddum and African Caribbean Mental Health Services (ACMHS) between November 2021 and March 2022.

The pilot responded to the findings of the Independent Review of the Mental Health Act, which identified significant inequalities experienced by Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities in accessing mental health services and advocacy.

Empower Consultants CIC led the delivery of the pilot and developed and delivered culturally appropriate advocacy training for professionals, helping to improve understanding of culturally responsive practice and the needs of diverse communities.

The project supported people subject to the Mental Health Act 1983 through culturally appropriate advocacy and engagement in both hospitals and community settings. It helped increase awareness of advocacy rights, strengthen people’s involvement in decisions about their care and treatment, and informed future approaches to delivering equitable mental health advocacy services.

The learning from CAAP continues to influence Empower’s commitment to delivering culturally responsive advocacy and reducing inequalities in mental health care.