Whether because of historical discrimination, lack of understanding, personally or culturally, accessing mental health support is difficult, even prohibitive for members of marginalised communities. Lack of access exacerbates disparity; Black and Black British women are more likely to experience a common mental health problem (29%) compared to White British women (21%) and non-British White women (16%). Peer support can help relieve stigma encouraging access, from within communities.

We already successfully provide peer led spaces, 94% of our members using our services report an improvement to their mental health, with funding we could expand by tailoring groups to the needs of WOC and LGBTQIA+ members, who can be especially at risk. For example LGBTQIA+ people are 1½ times more likely to develop anxiety and depression compared to the rest of the population, largely due to discrimination which would diminish considerably in a safe space.