Webinar Overview:

Sickle cell and thalassaemia are among the most common inherited blood disorders globally, yet awareness and understanding remain limited across many professional settings. In the UK, these conditions disproportionately affect individuals from African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian backgrounds, raising important considerations around health equity, cultural competence, and systemic disparities in care.

This webinar explores the realities of living with sickle cell and thalassaemia, including the physical, emotional, and social impact on individuals and families. It will examine common misconceptions, barriers to effective support, and the importance of early recognition and informed responses across health, education, and community services.

Bringing together practical insight, lived experience, and professional reflection, this session will support participants to build confidence, improve awareness, and respond more effectively to the needs of those affected.

Ideal for:

• Health and social care professionals
• Youth workers, mentors and support practitioners
• Teachers, pastoral staff and safeguarding leads
• Local authority practitioners and frontline staff
• Voluntary and community sector organisations
• Equality, diversity and inclusion leads
• Members of the public, and family and friends of those affected

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding what sickle cell and thalassaemia are and how they affect the body
• Recognising the signs, symptoms, and potential complications
• Exploring the lived experiences of individuals and families affected
• Challenging myths, stigma, and common misconceptions
• Understanding the importance of culturally competent and trauma-informed support
• Identifying how professionals can respond appropriately in crisis and non-crisis situations
• Improving communication, empathy, and inclusive practice across services

Additional Benefits:

• Gain practical insight to support individuals in health, education, and community settings
• Develop confidence in recognising and responding to sickle cell-related needs
• Strengthen your ability to deliver culturally responsive and person-centred support
• Learn how to create more inclusive and informed environments for those affected
• Enhance your professional practice through real-world examples and discussion

This webinar is essential for professionals and organisations committed to improving awareness, reducing health inequalities, and delivering more informed, compassionate, and culturally competent support for individuals living with sickle cell and thalassaemia. It is also highly valuable for members of the public, as well as family and friends of those affected, who want to better understand these conditions and provide meaningful support.