October marks Black History Month, a time to celebrate the heritage, resilience, and achievements of Black people across the UK and within our vibrant Bristol community.
This year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” invites us to reflect on the strength, courage, and self-belief that have always been at the heart of Black history — and to continue standing firm in the fight for equality, representation, and justice.
At Changes Bristol, we’re proud to celebrate this theme by honouring the power of community, the importance of allyship, and the role that inclusive mental health support plays in helping every individual stand strong in who they are.
Our Commitment to Allyship and Inclusion
We recognise that systemic racism and inequality can have deep and lasting effects on mental health and wellbeing. That’s why our work is guided by our core values: Allyship and Inclusion, Wellbeing, Empowerment, Respect, Transparency, and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. These principles shape everything we do; from the way we facilitate our peer support groups, to how we engage with the diverse communities we serve.
Creating Safe Spaces for All
At Changes Bristol, all our support groups are safe and welcoming spaces, where individuals can share their experiences openly and without fear of judgment. We have a zero-tolerance policy for hate speech or discrimination, ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors feels respected, heard, and supported.
We are especially proud of our Women of Colour Support Group, a dedicated and empowering space where women can come together to share experiences, support one another, and find strength in community. This group reflects the essence of this year’s theme — Standing Firm in Power and Pride — by creating a safe place for women to express themselves freely and celebrate their identities with confidence.
A Personal Reflection
As the writer of this piece, I am mixed race with Black heritage, and I am incredibly proud to be part of the Changes Bristol community. Working in an organisation that truly lives its values has allowed me to feel safe, seen, and supported in my identity. The culture of openness, kindness, and allyship here is something I deeply value. It’s what makes Changes not just a charity, but a community where people can be their authentic selves.
Celebrating and Supporting Black Communities
Black History Month is a time for celebration, reflection, and action. We honour the creativity, leadership, and contributions of Bristol’s Black community — past, present, and future. But celebration must also be paired with continued effort: to challenge inequality, uplift Black voices, and make mental health support truly equitable, inclusive, and empowering.
This October, and every day, we stand firm — in power, in pride, and in solidarity.
Written By Liam Cooper-King, Head of Services