Safeena

Who we are

Safeena is the UK’s first Muslim Cancer Support Network, established to address the cultural, spiritual and systemic inequalities faced by Muslims affected by cancer.

We provide faith-sensitive, culturally competent support to individuals and families across the UK. Our work bridges the gap between communities and mainstream cancer services, ensuring people feel understood, respected and supported throughout their cancer journey.

Our support includes:

• Peer befriending and emotional support

• Faith-informed guidance and pastoral care

• Healthcare navigation and advocacy

• Multilingual awareness and education sessions

• Community-led stigma reduction initiatives

Working in partnership with mosques, NHS services and community organisations, Safeena is building a national model of inclusive, community-rooted cancer support that improves access, trust and wellbeing.

Our culture and values

Safeena is a community-rooted charity guided by compassion, integrity and service. Our work is shaped by the lived experiences of the people we support and grounded in faith-sensitive, culturally competent practice.

Our core values include:

Compassion and Khidma (Service)
We exist to serve. We approach every individual with empathy, dignity and respect, recognising the emotional and spiritual impact of cancer.

Integrity and Accountability
We operate transparently, uphold strong governance standards and take responsibility for delivering safe, high-quality support.

Cultural Competence and Inclusion
We recognise the importance of faith, language, modesty and cultural identity in healthcare experiences. Our services are inclusive and open to all who seek culturally sensitive support.

Collaboration and Partnership
We work closely with mosques, NHS services, community organisations and volunteers to strengthen pathways and reduce inequalities.

Learning and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to evidence-informed practice, reflection and growth as we transition into a nationally scalable organisation.

Our working culture is supportive, purpose-driven and collaborative. We value professionalism alongside community spirit, and we are building a high-performing organisation that balances faith values with strong governance and operational excellence.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Safeena is committed to creating a fair, inclusive and respectful working environment where everyone is valued and able to contribute fully.

We are an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background.

Our approach includes:

• Inclusive Recruitment Practices – Transparent job descriptions, fair shortlisting processes and diverse interview panels where possible.

• Accessible Working – Offering flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support different needs and circumstances.

• Zero Tolerance for Discrimination – Clear policies and reporting mechanisms to address bullying, harassment or discriminatory behaviour.

• Cultural Competence – Recognising and respecting faith, cultural identity and lived experience within our workforce.

• Ongoing Learning – Encouraging continuous development in equality, safeguarding and inclusive practice.

While Safeena is rooted in serving Muslim communities, our workforce and services are open to people of all backgrounds who share our commitment to compassionate, culturally competent care.

We believe diversity strengthens our organisation and improves the quality and reach of our work.