Understanding interventions aimed at developing cultural competence

Background: Research indicates that ethnic minorities have more challenging experiences of mental health care; suggested reasons for which include stigma and a lack of cultural sensitivity.

Aim: To carry out a narrative review based on a systematic literature search to synthesise the outputs from research that has explored interventions aimed at improving cultural competence of UK NHS mental health services.

Method: Using the PRISMA method, literature was systemically searched, screened,and selected using inclusion and exclusion criteria. Using quality appraisal tools, selected papers were assessed, following which, a narrative synthesis of the findings was presented.

Results: Eleven studies were found. Types of interventions included: novel group interventions for ethnic minority groups; service development to improve outcomes for cultural minorities; culturally-adapted psychological therapy; and, non-clinical interventions for service improvement. The findings were associated with improvements in the cultural competence of services and BAME service users’ experience of mental health services.

Discussion: The review aims were successfully addressed. The findings indicated that interventions to improve cultural competence can be acceptable and effective. However, all
studies involved small sample sizes and most did not include a comparison group. Future research should compare adapted/novel interventions with TAU and explore the perspective of clinicians.