Fatima Aliyu, a Senior Engagement Worker and Social Prescriber at Trust for Developing Communities (TDC), has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between services and the ethnically diverse, minoritised communities she supports. Fatima plays a vital role in connecting people with the right help at the right time.
In a chat with UOK Communications Coordinator, Manasi Barmecha, she shares her journey, what mental well-being means to her, and the powerful ways she connects with ethnically diverse communities.
What does mental well-being mean to you personally and within your community?
Mental health to me is emotional, psychological, and social well-being which enables me to cope with everyday challenges and relationships. It contributes to my community and helps me think clearly, handle stress, and feel balanced.
What is the most powerful way to connect with ethnically diverse, minoritised communities you work with?
The first thing is empathy. You have to empathise with them, listen without judgment, understand their cultural background, build confidence, create a welcoming space, and give them time until they feel ready to talk and help themselves. Being a person of colour myself makes it easier to connect with the community because they believe we understand them better and share similar experiences. This helps break stigma, build trust, and encourage them to seek support knowing their confidentiality is respected.
What inspired you to become a social prescriber?
My inspiration came from volunteering, such as working at a food bank. I found happiness in helping people and realized they needed more than food; they needed someone to listen and support them. This inspired me to do this work professionally.
What are some myths or misconceptions around minority disabilities accessing mental health services?
There is family or community pressure to keep problems secret due to stigma. Some believe mental health support is only for white people and not for them, which discourages seeking help and can lead to serious consequences like suicide.
What gives you hope in your work? Can you share a moment that reminded you why your work matters?
We support those facing barriers like stigma and inequality to access the right help at the right time. Helping people build trust and empowering them to take control of their lives is vital and gives me hope. Listening, offering support, and advocating can create meaningful change and inspire others. When someone we’ve helped comes back to refer a friend, it shows the ripple effect. The growing openness to talk about mental health will break the silence in families and communities. That’s what keeps me going.”
The partnership with UOK is great and gives me hope because it enriches our work. We provides peer support programs for women facing challenges, bringing them together for chats, food, and services. It brings joy to collaborate with UOK.
