Recently, staff from a range of research organisations across Oxford came together to host their second get-together for women and children, providing lunch and a chance to talk informally about health research.
The aim of the event was to build relationships with local Asian communities and learn about their mental health and dementia priorities in an informal setting.
Colleagues from the Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre (OH BRC), The Oxford Health Clinical Research Facility (OH CRF), Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust Older Adult and Experience and Involvement services along with charities Oxfordshire Mind, Alzheimer’s Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK organised the event in Cowley.
During the drop in event 16 women, 7 adolescents and 9 children under 12 years old came along to meet the teams and take part in activities including face painting, children’s yoga, clay modelling, a collaborative colouring project, henna body art and a session on spiritual wellbeing. Information about research and local health services was available as well as the opportunity for attendees to chat with staff.
A wall hanging, made by Debbie Moll Team Lead at the OH CRF from squares of fabric decorated by women and children who attended the previous event in July, was put up on display at the event.
Shona Forster, Patient and Participant Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) Lead for the Oxford Health Brain Health Clinic said: “There was lots of energy in the room and women who attended were quick to share opinions and experiences of mental health challenges. The Spiritual Wellbeing session was particularly powerful and gave attendees the space to share their thoughts.
“We heard many questions about mental health conditions and access to services. It is important that we now work with our community connectors to find ways of answering some of those questions in the right community settings”
Andreia Costa, Training & Career Development Project Manager said: “I had the pleasure of attending the Asian Community event, not only in my role with the OH BRC but also as someone deeply passionate about fostering connections within the local community and bridging the gap between research and real-life impact.
“The event was a nice gathering, with a wonderful turnout of women and children. What truly stood out was the joy and positive energy that flowed throughout the event. It was heart-warming to witness the community come together, engage with one another, and take part in activities designed to uplift and inspire.
“Moments like these underscore the importance of creating spaces where people can connect, learn, and grow together.”
Attendees praised the event as very good and interactive, with new and different activities for adults and children.
