WEDHS' research is focused on finding solutions to the health and welfare problems faced by black and minority ethnic (BME) people living in Wales.

Research is not simply about finding answers, it is about identifying which questions to explore; finding patterns and making connections. These findings then enable us to draw conclusions which lead to practical solutions.

One of the difficulties in the research and development of health and social care services stems from the fact that physical health and mental wellbeing are closely tied. Being able to cope with the ups and downs of life, and remain free from illness, is dependent on many complex factors - all of which are linked to our experiences and perceptions: where and how we live; what we do, and don't do; how we see ourselves and how others treat us; our values and our beliefs. With the BME population of Wales made up of such a diverse mix of people; from different backgrounds, cultures and ways of life, living in such a varied country as Wales, getting a clearer picture of their priority needs was a huge challenge.

WEDHS response was to ask the people most likely to know: those who use the services, those who provide the services, and those who develop them, and analyse the responses. These consultation exercises gave us a collective insight - a Wales specific view - of what is happening, and what we need to concentrate on.

The result?

Two comprehensive lists of BME health and social research priorities:

1. A list drawn from the point of view of the Voluntary Sector & Equalities Agencies
2. A list drawn from WEDHS scoping study (conducted in 2005) and consultation exercises (conducted in 2006).