Partnership working with the Inclusive Muslim Action Network and Sandwell and West Birmingham Clinical Commission Group

RES working with the Inclusive Muslim Action Network (IMAN)

Rights and Equality RES are working closely with the IMAN Group to challenge NHS Sandwell and West Birmingham Clinical Commissioning Group’s (SWBCCG) decision to no longer fund Male circumcision for religious reasons which would predominantly impact the Islamic community in Sandwell.

RES supported the setting up of two information events for the community. From there we have worked with the IMAN and SWBCCG to develop a service for male circumcision that will continue in the future.

Sandwell’s approach to continue with male circumcision is the first in the country. Rather than letting the service just end, a task and finish group was set up to look at this issue. This group included members from the community and IMAN Group, Accountable Officer from SWBCCG, GP Practitioners, RES, Faith Leaders, Chief Officer and Senior Managers from key community organisations in Sandwell.

Following many meetings, we are currently in discussions about setting up a standardised service for the community that is clinical, safe, regulated and accessible.

Onwards and upwards for progress!