Polish Community Focus Groups
Community Focus Groups: Addressing Health Inequalities within Birmingham’s Polish Community
As part of Centrala’s work under the Deep Engagement Partner Programme, delivered in partnership with Birmingham City Council Public Health, we are facilitating a series of thematic focus groups with members of the Polish community in Birmingham. These focus groups aim to generate a deeper understanding of the health-related challenges experienced by the community and contribute to the development of more inclusive and responsive public health services.
Each session is designed to provide a supportive and structured environment in which participants can share lived experiences, identify service gaps, and contribute to the co-production of solutions. Insights gathered will inform ongoing work to address health inequalities as outlined in Birmingham’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2022–2030.
14/06/25 Focus Group 1: Barriers in Understanding and Accessing the Primary Healthcare System
This focus group explores the structural, linguistic, and cultural barriers that Polish residents encounter when engaging with primary healthcare services in Birmingham. Discussions will centre on accessibility of GP services, communication with healthcare professionals, awareness of patients’ rights, and trust in the system. The session aims to identify practical obstacles and inform approaches to improve health access for Polish-speaking patients.
24/06/25 Focus Group 2: Understanding Healthy Eating and Cultural Influences on Diet
This session investigates how cultural background and migration experiences influence dietary choices, nutritional knowledge, and attitudes towards healthy eating within the Polish community. The discussion will provide insight into how public health messaging can be more effectively tailored to reflect cultural norms, economic pressures, and the realities of migrant life.
13/09/25 Focus Group 3: Understanding Oral Hygiene and Its Importance for Children
This session will explore how Polish parents and caregivers in the UK understand and approach children’s oral hygiene. We’ll talk about habits at home, awareness of NHS dental services, and any barriers to accessing care. We’re especially keen to hear from first-time parents, low-income families, LGBT+ parents, and community workers who support children’s health.
26/09/25 Focus Group 4: Understanding the Social Drivers of Substance Misuse
This focus group will explore the social and cultural factors that contribute to substance use within the Polish community. We’ll look at how issues like housing, employment, and mental health influence drug use, and where support systems are falling short. We welcome young adults, parents, and professionals working with those affected.
Each focus group is part of a long-term initiative to amplify underrepresented voices in public health planning and policy. Participants are offered a £20 voucher as a gesture of appreciation for their time and contributions.