Laurence D.
Birmingham, January 23rd 2025
Innovating Minds is thrilled to announce that its Healing Together programmes are now available in Arabic, Bengali, and Polish. This ground-breaking initiative aims to provide families affected by domestic abuse with early, trauma-informed support to aid their healing journey.
The Vesta SFS report on statistics from 2009 to 2020 reveal that Polish women represent the largest group of domestic abuse victims after British women, highlighting the urgent need for accessible, targeted support for Polish communities and other underserved groups. Many individuals in these communities face significant language barriers, preventing them from accessing the vital services they need.
Innovating Minds is committed to addressing these challenges by ensuring equitable access to trauma-informed support for children, parents, and caregivers impacted by domestic abuse. With funding from the West Midlands Combined Authority, the organisation has translated its Healing Together programmes into Arabic, Bengali, and Polish, making these life-changing resources available to even more families.
By prioritising language inclusivity, Innovating Minds demonstrates its dedication to fostering a more inclusive approach to trauma recovery. These translations reflect the organisation’s unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers so individuals from diverse backgrounds can access the support they need to heal and thrive.
“We are delighted to make the Healing Together programmes available in Arabic, Bengali, and Polish,” said Dr. Asha Patel, Clinical Psychologist and CEO at Innovating Minds. “This step reflects our steadfast commitment to ensuring that every child, parent, and caregiver affected by domestic abuse can access the support they need, without the obstacle of language barriers.”
Aneta Maryla Mackell, CEO of OPOKA CIO, added that: "Domestic violence and tragic incidents continue to plague our society, and change is necessary. We must recognize the unique needs of minority families, including language and cultural barriers, and a lack of understanding of support systems. Without addressing these, we risk perpetuating hopelessness and horrific acts.
It’s time to address domestic violence inclusively and compassionately. The Healing Together Programme educates professionals, parents, and adults, and provides healing for children and young people affected by domestic abuse. At Opoka, we are committed to raising awareness and education on domestic violence, especially within Polish families in the UK, to support children’s mental health and help them overcome trauma.
In 2021, Opoka received valuable training from Innovating Minds, providing reliable information and resources to support Polish children impacted by domestic abuse and help others identify signs of victimization and access support. Translating the Healing Together Programme into other languages is a milestone in trauma informed healing, and we are privileged to be part of it."
For more information about the Healing Together programmes and the resources available, please visit our website or contact Kelly Nicholls [kelly@innovatingmindscic.com].