University honours mental health advocate Sasha Bhat

Recognition for two decades of service in Bradford District

Sasha Bhat, a mental health campaigner who contributed significantly to improving wellbeing in the Bradford District and Craven, was posthumously awarded an honorary Doctorate of Health by the University of Bradford. The award recognised her work across health, social care, and the voluntary sector over more than 20 years.

Ms Bhat was presented with the honorary doctorate certificate at her home in Wakefield on 2 June, just weeks before she passed away on 19 June following a battle with cancer. She was surrounded by family and friends at the time of her death.

Awards and ceremony

The honorary degree was formally collected on behalf of her family at the University’s graduation ceremonies on 14 July by Therese Patten, Chief Executive of Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust. Ms Patten had previously received an Outstanding Contribution Award from the University in 2025. Members of Ms Bhat’s family, including her husband Dr Sarfaraz Shora, attended the ceremony.

Dr Shora expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating that the honour was a comfort to the family and a fitting tribute to Sasha Bhat’s legacy. He also thanked the University for arranging the presentation at her home, which provided a cherished memory for the family.

Contributions to mental health services

Over her career, Sasha Bhat played a pivotal role in reshaping mental health services in the Bradford district. Her work emphasised prevention, early intervention, and community-led support. Some of the initiatives she helped develop include:

• Better Mental Wellbeing and Better Lives, Brighter Futures programmes
• Bradford’s Crisis House
• Culturally responsive mental health support services
• The nationally recognised Healthy Minds programme

She was also a strong advocate for addressing health inequalities and ensuring that diverse communities had a voice in shaping mental health services.

Legacy and impact

Colleagues remember Sasha Bhat for her energy, ability to unite people, and determination to improve outcomes for those most in need. Beyond her professional achievements, she supported the next generation through mentoring, apprenticeships, and employment opportunities. She also contributed to Bradford’s wider cultural initiatives, including the city’s UK City of Culture 2025 programme.

Professor Gillian Murray, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bradford, commented on Ms Bhat’s dedication to creating healthier, fairer, and more inclusive communities. She highlighted Ms Bhat’s leadership and commitment to partnership working, which helped ensure that often unheard voices were listened to and supported.

Although Sasha Bhat has passed away, her legacy continues through the services she helped establish and the many individuals and communities who benefit from her work.