User-led project scoops top award

A user-led project for African-Caribbean people with mental health problems has won the top prize at this year’s Skills for Care Accolades.

Nyabingi, which was set up in 2001 as an offshoot from a Luton Council project, also triumphed in the practice learning category.

Luton student Claudette Stapleton, who is about to complete an 80-day placement at the project, praised its focus on the African-Caribbean culture of its users. The group runs activities including African drumming and cookery for users.

“I saw a determination and commitment from clients themselves,” she said. “They inspired me to see a self-help group can achieve so much. When I go back into statutory work I will take their ideas with me.”