MIHE Staff Participate in British Bangladeshi Psychiatry Association Conference

Ruqayyah Hibell, Course Lead for Muslim Chaplaincy, and Dr Hafza Iqbal, Course Lead for Islam and Pastoral Care, both at MIHE, participated in the annual conference of the British Bangladeshi Psychiatry Association (BBPA) on 23 October 2026.

Convened by Dr Anis Ahmad, Consultant Psychiatrist at an NHS hospital in Solihull, the conference brought together clinicians, academics, community engagement professionals and mental health practitioners to explore contemporary challenges in psychiatry, cultural sensitivity and the relationship between theology and mental health.

Ruqayyah Hibell delivered a presentation examining the intersection of Muslim chaplaincy, pastoral care and mental health practice. She highlighted the importance of addressing misconceptions, recognising lived experiences and strengthening collaboration between healthcare professionals, academics and faith-based practitioners. Her presentation emphasised how integrating theological understanding, clinical expertise and lived experience can contribute to more culturally sensitive and effective mental health support, particularly for minoritised communities.

The conference also received a message of support from Professor Subodh Dave, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, who acknowledged the BBPA’s contributions to psychiatry, human rights and community engagement. He particularly recognised its pioneering work in raising awareness of the psychological impact of enforced disappearances and the lasting trauma experienced by victims and their families.

MIHE’s participation reflects its ongoing commitment to strengthening links between Islamic scholarship, professional chaplaincy, pastoral care and mental health services to better serve diverse communities.