This report provides a unique insight into how mental health advocacy has failed to reflect and address the specific needs of Black and ethnic minority communities. Best practice in mental health:uncovers and highlights persistent problems in mainstream services which position Black service users on the margins with limited support;examines the reasons for the lack of advocacy development within the Black Voluntary Sector;explores the reasons why advocacy is less accessible to Black service users;combines examples of best practice derived mainly from Black mental health and advocacy projects.The report concludes with recommendations and the need to address a range of key issues such as access, language and communication, funding and implementation.The report will be of interest to practitioners working in the fields of mental health and advocacy both in statutory and voluntary services, policy makers as well as Black mental health service users and self-help groups.