As an organisation COSRT understands that we are at a tipping point in social history. We are committed to supporting efforts to tackle racial inequality.
It is for that reason that COSRT remains concerned that the therapy profession is not as diverse as the communities it seeks to serve. Now is the time to acknowledge this and work to change things.
We believe more research should be done to better understand why BAME groups appear to be underrepresented in the psychotherapy and counselling professions. Work should also be done to understand why people from BAME backgrounds are more likely to drop out of psychotherapy studies than other groups. Understanding more will let us see and tackle the barriers to engagement in the profession which is so needed.
The challenges, however, extend beyond practitioners to service users. Research has shown that those of black and ethnic minority are far less likely to be referred for counselling and psychotherapy. We must therefore urgently look at how those from BAME backgrounds can more easily access the therapy and services they need. Barriers, whether cultural, systemic or otherwise have to be seen and challenged.
COSRT therefore calls on all stakeholders, from researchers to other professional bodies, to make a commitment to striving for equality and diversity. To commit resource to understanding barriers, unmet needs and experiences. To taking actions that will promote diversity within the profession and equality of access to services.
COSRT has signed up to the Race at Work Charter and is dedicated to driving change where it is still much needed. We have added ‘Working with Diversity’ to our new portfolio of online events and urge all supervisors to sign-up to help break down barriers and ensure COSRT therapists have the knowledge to drive change.
At COSRT we have a zero-tolerance policy toward racism. As a member if you have concerns or a complaint regarding racism at any time please look at our complaint’s procedure here.
John Dodd, CEO