Health & Wellbeing Research
Speaking for Ourselves is a peer research initiative delivered by Surrey Minority Ethnic Forum (SMEF) in partnership with Surrey County Council. The project set out to amplify the voices of Surrey residents from ethnic minority backgrounds, exploring how identity, culture, faith and systemic barriers affect and influence health and wellbeing.
Why Research Matters
Ethnic minority communities in Surrey face significant health inequalities, with higher rates of chronic conditions, poorer mental health outcomes, and difficulties navigating primary care services. Barriers such as stigma, language, digital exclusion, and cultural misunderstanding contribute to the underuse of health services. Despite these disparities, these voices are often missing from service design and policy-making.
Speaking for Ourselves bridges the gap between communities and policymakers by uncovering hidden voices and amplifying the lived experiences of individuals and communities experiencing different forms of marginalisation.
Key Findings
Voices from Our Communities
“Decision-makers need to appreciate our value and consider us in decision-making as well as in research to improve our lived experiences.”
Stanley - Peer Researcher
“Most of the time people care about these issues, but they need gentle guiding to see how it applies to them. By leading with empathy, you can make people eager and passionate to take part.”
Mira - Peer Researcher
Read our Research Reports
Partner with SMEF on Future Research
We’re ready to build on the success of Speaking for Ourselves by expanding community-led research across Surrey. If you’re a researcher, funder, or policymaker interested in co-production, equity, or health inequalities, we’d love to hear from you.
SMEF works in partnership with the NHS, local authorities and VCSE organisations to improve access and outcomes. We follow strict safeguarding, confidentiality and GDPR procedures.
