Friday July 25, 2025
London, UK — At a recent workshop hosted at the Harrow & Wealdstone Library, Somali families gathered to discuss a topic too often left in the margins: autism.
Led by the renowned psychiatrist Dr. A. Fido, the session titled “Autism Assessment, Early Intervention, Diagnosis and Treatment” offered a rare and urgently needed space for learning and open dialogue within the Somali community—where cultural stigma and limited access have long hindered engagement with neurodevelopmental care.
Dr Fido leading the session on Autism Awareness
Dr. Fido has worked in the field for over 40 years and previously chaired the Department of Psychiatry at Kuwait University, he’s now a consultant pyschiatrist fir the NHS.
brought a deep well of clinical and cross-cultural expertise to the discussion. “Autism is often misunderstood, especially in the Somali community where awareness is still developing,” he said. “When parents can recognise the early signs and understand what support looks like, it transforms outcomes—not just for the child, but for the entire family.”
The session was part of the Hayaan Somali Mental Health Project, a culturally tailored initiative delivered by Mind in Harrow. Relaunched earlier this year with funding from the Reaching Communities National Lottery Fund, Hayaan now provides one-to-one casework support, monthly mental health workshops, and culturally responsive Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) training.
Though the project faced closure in August 2024 due to a lack of funding, its revival marks a vital restoration of services for Harrow’s Somali population—many of whom face persistent barriers when accessing mainstream mental health care.
Hayaan’s autism-focused workshop is one of several efforts to build trust and knowledge around mental health within the community. For attendees, the impact was immediate: practical tools, translated concepts, and, for many, a new sense of confidence in seeking help.
The Hayaan project will continue through December 2029, with ongoing programming designed around the specific cultural and linguistic needs of Somali residents in and around Harrow.
For information on upcoming Hayaan workshops or access to support services, community members can contact Mind in Harrow at info@mindinharrow.org.uk or call 020 8426 0929.
