Our Mission & Objectives

CATALYST 4 CHANGE (first formed in 2016) has a powerful social mission to strengthen the capacity and networks of voluntary, social enterprise, grassroots, service user led and statutory organisations and businesses.

We want to ensure that they provide the right care, at the right time and in the right place to African and Caribbean people with mental health support needs and their carers living in the West Midlands. 

Our Approach

Adopting the role of ‘positive deviants’, we will avoid some of the familiar problems with addressing concerns related to the mental health experiences of African and Caribbean communities and the failure to synthesize evidence drawn from lived experience, practical expertise and research. 

We provide capacity building, funding support, service incubation, networking opportunities and access to a wide range of professional services for community groups and organisations.

Challenges & Concerns

Mental health conditions affect the whole population across all ages. Worldwide, one in four people are affected by mental health problems at some point in their lives. 

A considerable body of evidence exists which demonstrates poor experiences and outcomes within African and Caribbean communities in relation to mental health support and services. Much of the recognised research that is already available highlights broad and enduring inequalities.

Funding & Development

We anticipate that CATALYST 4 CHANGE will be funded through a mixture of grant funding, sponsorship, self-generated income and affiliate membership fees.

Our Business Plan will include a return on social investment approach and full cost recovery strategy

to generate a level of income that will ensure future sustainability and impact. 

CATALYST is governed by directors and receives input from its members and other sector professionals.