David Bussue on Mental Health, SACMHA & Black Community Care

What does it take to transform mental health and social care for African and Caribbean communities in the UK?

In this powerful and timely conversation, David Bussue — Chief Executive of SACMHA Health & Social Care joins Tchiyiwe Chihana in the African Voices Platform studio to share his personal journey from social worker and ordained minister to frontline mental health advocate and community leader. Together, they unpack SACMHA’s trailblazing work, from culturally sensitive home care to pioneering reports like The SpeakUp Project and critical initiatives addressing Black male suicide. David speaks candidly about the emotional toll, systemic barriers, and spiritual grounding required to lead in this space, and the deep healing that can happen when care is rooted in cultural understanding.

Topics covered include:

• How SACMHA fills vital gaps in mainstream services

• Why culturally responsive mental health care matters

• Lessons from key partnerships with the NHS and Sheffield Council

• David’s leadership journey and legacy vision

• What young people and future leaders need to know A must-watch for health professionals, social care advocates, policymakers, and anyone interested in building systems that honour the dignity, strength, and needs of Black communities.