A new community-led health initiative aimed at tackling inequalities affecting Black communities in Ealing has been launched bringing together residents, health professionals and local organisations.
The “Black Ealing – Healthy & Well” programme was announced last week (26 March 2026) at West Acton Community Centre, marking the start of a two-year programme of engagement, activities and outreach across the borough.
Delivered in partnership with West London NHS Trust, NHS North West London Integrated Care Board, Ealing Council and Ealing & Hounslow Community and Voluntary Service, the initiative builds on recommendations from the Ealing Race Equality Commission and the borough’s Roots & Wings programme.
Attendees were offered free health checks, including blood pressure and blood sugar testing, aimed at raising awareness of conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, which disproportionately affect Black communities.
Zena Kotey, of the Healthy Ealing team at Ealing Community Partners, West London NHS Trust, told EALING.NEWS: “This launch felt like a real moment for our community. Seeing so many Ealing residents come through the doors, get their blood pressure checked, connect with local organisations and simply feel that their health matters, that’s what this is all about.
“We know that health inequalities affecting Black communities are deep-rooted, but days like 26 March remind us that change is possible when you start from a place of trust, inclusion and genuine care.”
Elaisha Bedasee, founder of EJ Natural Vibes Juices, told EALING.NEWS: “I was so proud to bring EJ Natural Vibes Juices to the launch. There’s something really powerful about seeing your community come together around health and wellbeing — and being able to contribute to that through fresh, natural juices made with real ingredients felt like a genuine privilege.
“Good nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated or inaccessible, and events like this show that when we create the right spaces, our community embraces it wholeheartedly. I left that day feeling inspired and I cannot wait to be part of what comes next.”
The event also featured local businesses and community groups, while residents were invited to vote on a logo for the initiative, placing community input at the centre of the programme.
The initiative will now roll out a series of events, workshops and outreach activities over the next two years, aimed at improving awareness of services, encouraging early health checks and strengthening links between communities and providers.
