Mental health services designed for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnics (BAME) in the UK: a scoping review of case studies

Background and objective: Mental health disparities exist among Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) populations. This scoping review aimed to provide an overview of mental health services designed for BAME population, both established UK BAME communities and refugee/asylum-seekers. Methods: A range of electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies conducted within past decade in the UK. Using the Arksey and O’Malley methodology, data were extracted, analysed and summarised. Findings: A total of 13 papers were identified, mostly non-randomised community-based. Studies were very heterogeneous in terms of their sample and service provided. After initial appraisal, we presented a narrative synthesis. Overall, all studies reported positive mental health outcomes and beneficial effects. Conclusion: Mental health services provided for BAME people, both established and refugee/asylum-seekers are feasible and improve engagement with the services and mental health outcomes. Initiatives are required to facilitate integration of these targeted services within mental health and community services for BAME in the UK.