Forum for Race Equality in Social Care and Health

FRESH is a vibrant, long-standing Forum working in partnership with Leeds City Council, NHS West Yorkshire ICB, and organisations across the Third Sector. It brings people together to share real experiences, challenge inequality, and make sure racially minoritised communities are heard where decisions are made.

FRESH feeds directly into several key networks across Leeds. Over the years, members have played a crucial role in shaping work on Windrush, the BME Your Health, Your Say Conference, NHS England’s prescription medicine management, BME Day Services redesign, and city-wide engagement by former CCGs.

The Forum has a reputation for being “Involvement Ready” – members bring lived experience, insight, and an honest voice that services trust. They are regularly asked to act as a critical friend, making sure services understand what works (and what doesn’t) for communities across Leeds.

More recently, FRESH has also helped influence Carers Assessments, contributed to the delivery of PCREF in Leeds, and fed into major strategic developments across Adults & Health and NHS partners. Its ongoing work continues to shape policy, improve services, and build better connections between communities and the people who design and deliver support.