Researching African and Caribbean Health (ReACH) conducts studies to help us better understand and improve the health and wellbeing of people from African and Caribbean backgrounds in the UK and globally, while tackling inequalities.
This includes people who may describe themselves as ‘Black British’, ‘Mixed heritage’ and in other ways. We want to help improve the health and wellbeing of all people, and the care and experience of those who use services.
ReACH is led by Professor Dawn Edge, a Black Caribbean woman who works for The University of Manchester. Dawn is affiliated with Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and the Manchester Biomedical Research Centre. View Dawn’s research profile.
Our research
African and Caribbean health and wellbeing has been influenced through historical, political, and socio-cultural forces in specific ways.
For example, in the UK, Black African and Caribbean people are more likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia and other psychoses than any other ethnic group. However, they are less likely to be diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorders.
Comparative studies have not found similar rates of morbidity in Caribbean countries like Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad. Racism, discrimination, migration, social, and economic disadvantage are among contributory risk factors in the UK.
Disparities in physical health and care are also apparent. For example, Black women experience worse pregnancy and birth outcomes than women from other ethnic groups (FIVEXMORE). Black people also have higher rates of some cancers. Across all cancer types, Black people are more likely to be diagnosed in later stages of the disease (Stages 3 & 4) where treatments are less successful (Can-Survive UK).
In addition to developing theories about similarities and differences across the diaspora, we are committed to working with others to develop effective, evidence-based interventions.
Our research looks at different aspects of mental health. In addition to a body of work related to schizophrenia and psychosis, we work with other researchers who are interested in improving how services are delivered, and people’s experiences.
Student projects
Professor Dawn Edge welcomes enquiries from potential postgraduate students seeking to undertake research to tackle inequalities in mental and physical health.
If you are interested, please contact Dawn directly.
Email: dawn.edge@manchester.ac.uk
Completed studies
See information on studies that have come to an end.
Patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) involves speaking to people from the communities being researched.
Co-production is a fundamental principle of ReACH, as service users and families should have a say in research processes that will impact their future health outcomes.
We have spoken to people from African and Caribbean backgrounds throughout our work, benefiting both contributors and researchers in the process.
If you are interested in getting involved with our PPI activities, please contact us.
We provide regular updates on our research and PPI activities through our blog.
Visit the blog for updates on events, studies and other ReACH activities.
There are many organisations and resources for people who want to learn more about the wider issues surrounding our research into the health and wellbeing of Black African and Caribbean people.
You can also browse academic research articles relevant to ReACH’s work.
For further information or to get involved with our studies, please contact us.
Professor Dawn Edge
ReACH Director and CaFI Chief Investigator (The University of Manchester)
Tel: +44 (0)161 275 2570
Email: dawn.edge@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries
Email: cafi@gmmh.nhs.uk
Where to find us in Manchester
3rd floor, Rawnsley Building
Manchester Royal Infirmary
Hathersage Road
Manchester
Greater Manchester
M13 9WL
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Contact Us
+44 (0) 161 306 6000
