Diversity Resource International (DRI) is a non-profit Community Interest Company that supports ethnically diverse and migrant communities across the UK. In collaboration with the Brighton and Sussex Medical School, DRI is currently co-leading a pilot research project to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the Friendship Bench model in the UK. Currently, nine trained Friendship Benchers are providing support across the first three "benches" in southeast England.

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Purpose of the Study

 

Research shows that migrants and minority ethnic groups often experience higher rates of mental illness and face barriers when trying to access mental health services. The Sussex Friendship Bench study aims to:

 

• Assess how feasible and acceptable the Friendship Bench model is in the Sussex context.

• Understand whether community-based peer support can improve mental health and wellbeing among migrant and minority ethnic adults.

• Explore how this model can strengthen community capacity to address mental health needs locally.

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Read more about the project on the DRI website

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