The Caribbean & African Health Network (CAHN) works to reduce health inequalities affecting African and Caribbean communities in Greater Manchester. Based in Moss Side, they address the fact that these communities face worse outcomes across a range of health issues — and have done for decades.
CAHN runs programmes covering mental health, sexual health, long-term conditions like diabetes and hypertension, and health promotion. They deliver culturally appropriate services, which matters because mainstream health services often don’t account for the specific needs and experiences of Black communities. Their work includes one-to-one support, group sessions, community health events, and advocacy with health providers.
They also carry out research and policy work, pushing for systemic changes in how health services reach and treat African and Caribbean people. During the Covid pandemic, CAHN played a key role in addressing vaccine hesitancy and health misinformation within communities that had good reason to distrust institutions.
CAHN is based at the West Indian Sports & Social Club, Broadfield Road, Moss Side, M14 4UB. They run various projects with different eligibility and referral routes — check their website at cahn.org.uk for current programmes. They welcome volunteers and are always looking for people from the communities they serve to get involved.