The Wandsworth Community Empowerment Network (WCEN) will be hosting their 9th Black Mental Health Conference and Black History Exhibition today.

The purpose of the conferences has been to provide evidence that engages with and empowers communities to make positive differences to their health and wellbeing. 

This year will feature an update on progress made by mental health services on addressing BME inequalities. There will be keynote presentations on socially orientated approaches to recovery and wellness, and a special session on young people and mental health. There will also be a special tribute to the late Mayor of Wandsworth Cllr James Madden.

An exhibition will feature an art exhibition curated by Michael Mapp featuring work by Charlie ‘Roots’ Philips, Neil Kenlock, Gary March, Karl Cornwall, Michael Mapp and Rohan Clarke. This exhibition’s core theme is Black Caribbean Historic Culture in London from the late 1960s to the present, and will address themes surrounding identity, belonging, perception, societal positioning, anxiety and the black spiritual mind space. 

The event will be held at the New Testament Assembly Church, 7 Beechcroft Road, Tooting SW17 7BU from 2pm to 8pm today, Thursday 26 October.