Zuri Therapy

Total funding requested: £50,000

We are seeking funding to expand Zuri Therapy, our community mental-health initiative offering free group therapy sessions led by certified Black therapists. It was delivered online, but we aim to bring these sessions in person to accessible community spaces across Lambeth and Southwark.

Many Black people struggle to find therapists who understand the racialised context of their experiences. Too often, they feel misunderstood, dismissed, or forced to over-explain issues such as racism and microaggressions, making therapy more stressful than healing. Our project directly addresses this gap by creating safe, affirming, and culturally competent spaces where participants can process experiences without judgment or the burden of educating their therapist.

As part of the expanded Zuri Therapy project, we will run an 8-week combined self-defence and wellbeing programme, building on the success of our pilot at Brixton House. These sessions pair practical self-defence training with guided wellbeing discussions, helping participants feel stronger both mentally and physically. In our pilot, attendees described the experience as “holistic”, sharing that they felt “seen,” “more confident,” and “part of a community.”

This project will primarily support Black individuals in Lambeth and Southwark, especially those on low incomes who may face barriers to traditional mental health support. Many participants are people who have avoided therapy because of cost, mistrust, or negative past experiences. By offering free, accessible, and culturally grounded sessions, we ensure that mental health care is available to those who need it most.

Black communities continue to face disproportionate mental health challenges, including higher rates of depression and anxiety, but yet are less likely to seek professional help. While traditional Western models of therapy often emphasise individual work, Zuri Therapy embraces collective healing, allowing participants to connect through shared experiences and reduce the stigma that can surround mental health.

The self-defence element also responds to real safety concerns within our community, providing tools that enhance personal security and confidence. We aim to ensure that all sessions are rooted in genuine understanding rather than just theory.

This funding will allow us to:

• Secure accessible community spaces for weekly sessions
• Pay qualified therapists and facilitators fairly
• Cover materials and wellbeing resources
• Ensure all sessions remain free for participants

BLAM UK has a proven track record of delivering community-led programmes. Our Brixton House pilot exceeded expectations; participants consistently attended, brought peers, and requested more sessions. Our facilitators bring both professional expertise and lived experience, ensuring every session is a space of empathy, empowerment, and real connection.

Through this project, we aim to create long-term impact by improving wellbeing, reducing isolation, and building stronger, more connected communities.