“Injustice in health is the most shocking and inhumane form of inequality.”
Dr Martin Luther King, Jr
While Dr Martin Luther King Jr.’s statement was inspired by the US healthcare system, it resonates powerfully in the UK, where we continue to witness health disparities affecting Black ethnic minority groups.
At the heart of Black History Month is the idea of honouring the past while building a future where equity and inclusion are not just ideals, but realities.
For the NIHR Leicester BRC, inclusion is more than a value, it’s a commitment. A commitment to ensuring that every person, regardless of their background, race, or status, has equal and equitable access to shaping the future of healthcare through participation in research.
One individual who has dedicated her career to this is Dr Natalie Darko, Associate Professor of Health Equity and Director of Inclusion at the NIHR Leicester BRC.
Through her research and advocacy, she exemplifies the impact of targeted efforts to address health disparities, particularly those affecting Black and underserved groups.
“Systemic barriers in healthcare won’t disappear overnight,” Dr Darko notes, “but through community-focused and co-produce research, we can begin to understand these disparities and foster trust within marginalized populations.”
Dr Darko’s approach is grounded in the recognition that historical and systemic exclusions of Black people from healthcare have perpetuated deep-rooted inequities. These gaps can only be addressed through innovative, community-centred approaches. Her leadership strikes a balance between rigorous research and a deep understanding of the lived experiences of the groups communities she serves, combining science with empathy.
One of Dr Darko’s key areas of focus has been addressing health inequities in maternal health and cancer care, where Black women face disproportionately poor outcomes. Her work with the BRC’s cancer theme has expanded this focus to explore the perspectives of Black African, Caribbean, Black British, and mixed-Black women on uterine cancer.
By illuminating these disparities, her research seeks to develop strategies for early symptom presentation and ensure that Black women receive compassionate, comprehensive care which is a reflection of BRC’s commitment to treating individuals holistically, not just as patients defined by their symptoms.
Beyond research, Dr Darko recognizes the importance of cultural context in health interventions. She has been a strong advocate for faith-based initiatives, understanding that for many in Black ethnic minority groups and communities, spirituality and community are essential sources of support. Her collaborations with churches and community and faith leaders ensure that her work is grounded in trust and respect, key pillars for driving sustainable, long-term change.
“Health research isn’t just about data and outcomes—it’s about listening to groups who are often unheard understanding their needs, and ensuring their voices shape the solutions,” Dr Darko says.
An excellent example of this collaborative approach is the partnership between the BRC and Green Pastures Church, where monthly sessions are co-designed with the African congregation and community members in Leicester. These gatherings, shaped by the community’s input, include indoor activities such as table tennis, pool, and board games, followed by health discussions led by BRC researchers. This co-designed approach ensures that the sessions truly reflect the community’s interests and needs, fostering a welcoming environment for engagement.
Ayodeji Ogunbuyide, Public Involvement Manager at the BRC, emphasizes the importance of these initiatives: “As well as being fun, these sessions create a space for friendly conversations with researchers, ensuring the community’s health needs and perspectives are represented in future initiatives.”
In addition to faith-based outreach, the BRC’s Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) team actively works to engage Leicester’s diverse communities. Through co-designed initiatives like art-based Bollywood dance sessions for Asian groups and culturally tailored activities for African populations, the BRC is ensuring that its research is relevant, accessible, and impactful.
As Ayodeji Ogunbuyide reflects, “We are not simply working for these communities; we are working with them. That’s how lasting change is made.”
The NIHR Leicester BRC remains committed to finding better ways to diagnose, manage, and treat health conditions that disproportionately affect Black communities. Through research that is grounded in equity, collaboration, and inclusivity, we are taking steps toward a better future where health equity is a reality.
You can read more about our Public Involvement approach for 2022 – 2027 in the NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) and Clinical Research Facility (CRF) Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy for 2022 – 2027.