CSP endorses new BAME quality standards on accessible health and wellbeing services

The standards were launched on 11 May by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) because BAME groups are currently under-represented in the use of health and wellbeing programmes.

They include

• smoking cessation
• obesity
• cardiac rehabilation

Evidence shows that some of these populations are also at higher risk of developing conditions such as type 2 diabetes and that these groups are less likely to access some services, such as those for mental health problems.

‘Physios should be aware of the new quality standards if they are providing health and wellbeing services and make sure these services are accessible to BAME groups,’ said CSP professional adviser Jenny Nissler.

The standards also address a need for better representation among minority ethnic groups in the planning and design of these services as peer and lay members.

‘This will encourage uptake of groups that may otherwise be reluctant to use these services and can raise awareness, deliver information and advice in a culturally appropriate manner, and help with designing and providing interventions and services that are relevant, acceptable and tailored to the local population,’ according to the NICE recommendations.