Black and minority ethnic young people

In Scotland, there is a growing recognition of the need to tackle inequalities in health experienced by black and minority ethnic groups. These may include broader issues, like poverty and low educational attainment, and issues that are specific to an individual's cultural background, such as their language or belief system. For younger people, racism and bullying may be particularly difficult to cope with.

It must be borne in mind that black and minority ethnic young people will experience the same health problems as other young people, and will have similar reluctance to engage with health services as other young people. However, there may be additional barriers created by cultural or religious issues, particularly surrounding sexual health and alcohol or drug misuse. It may be helpful for health professionals to reassure black and minority ethnic young people that their confidentiality will be respected.

A recent seminar on black and minority ethnic young people by YouthLink Scotland highlighted that mental health was a key issue, with many young people having a lack of confidence and feelings of isolation, and self-harm was identified as a particular concern.

NHS Health Scotland funds the National Resource Centre for Ethnic Minority Health to support the implementation of Race Equality Schemes and Fair For All Action Plans. At a community level, primary care services will be at the forefront of helping the NHS to address issues of access and barriers that may deter black and minority ethnic young people from seeking advice.