Centre for Sustainable Regeneration

The last decade has seen unprecedented growth for the UK economy. But many people are still not sharing in this success and making a positive contribution to the economy and their communities because they are not in work. Our country's economic competitiveness is hindered when we fail to ensure that all citizens have a good education and fair employment opportunities.

There are many reasons why some people lack the appropriate education, skills and jobs to play an acyive role in society. In spite of anti-discrimination laws many black and minority ethnic people are denied fair opportunities.

It is vital that the state does everything possible to support individuals who need help to make the difficult transition from benefits or inactivity into independent living. We believe that enterprising communities are successful communities. The third sector is well placed to work with others sectors to foster this ethos in areas where communities need inspiration, better leadership and better use of resources. All too often the policy intent is right but the implementation is inadequate.

BTEG want to see all ethnic groups achieving similar success in the education system and the labour market. Together we can make a difference by challenging poor and unfair policy and practice wherever we find it. So whatever your background you are welcome to work with us to find the right policy and delivery solutions.

Purpose 

Outcomes  

Programmes: BME Policy Matters project

The BME Policy Matters project is funded by London Councils for an initial 8 month period from July 2007 to February 2008 and is working towards meeting London Council's strategic outcomes:

Outcome 1: Strengthened voice of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities through increased civic engagement and participation in elected and appointed bodies, including local councils, the Greater London Assembly, and central Government bodies to ensure that the needs of the communities are met through the development of appropriate and improved services.

Outcome 2: Increased participation by BAME organisations in borough, sub-regional and pan-London partnership structures, for example, Local Area Agreements, Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships, Primary Care Trusts, Learning and Skills Councils, the Greater London Assembly, London Development Agency and the Metropolitan Police Authority, as well as relevant voluntary sector networks.

Areas of Work

  1. An inclusive commissioning process
    The programme is undertaking a review of the commissioning process of one public authority/programme to see if their process provides a fair opportunity for the BME sector to compete.
  2. BME involvement in Local Strategic Partnerships
    Our handbook 'Getting involved in Local Strategic Partnerships - A Guide for Black and Minority Ethnic Groups in England' provides a guide for BME third sector organisations, to help them understand the role of LSP's and what to do to get their voice heard. The Count Me In Programme is raising awareness among the sector, working with local authorities to promote LSP's and share good practice.
  3. Review BME third sector engagement in the Olympic developments
    'The BME Policy Matters project is undertaking lobbying activities to ensure BME individuals and communities actually benefit from the opportunities arising from this major development.
  4. Monthly Bulletins
    The BME Policy Matters project, will keep all our London Network members up to date with monthly policy update bulletins.