Race
Black South West Network
Black South West Network (BSWN) is a voice for the Black VCS to provide representation where it matters most with statutory bodies; to unlock further funds for the sector and increase effectiveness through the provision of advice, information, training, publications and development services. BSWN is located within the Black Development Agency in Bristol.
Aims and objectives
To strengthen the BME and voluntary sector in the South West, working with regional institutions to make sure there is equal access to policy making and resources, across social, economic and environmental development programs for the benefit of all communities in the South West.
We aim to provide access to information on policy and funding programs, supported by an online capacity building and advice service called ‘Black Net Solutions’ (BNS) which is accessible at www.bswn.org.uk through this site we aim to ...
· Unlock further funds for the sector at a regional level
· Advocate effectively at a regional level
· Ensure that the sector is consulted and recognised
· Increase the effectiveness of the sector through the provision of advice, information, training, representation, publications and development services.
Main activities
1. Research e.g. mapping project of BME infrastructure in the South West.
2. Advice.
3. Black Net Solutions
4. Training.
5. Publications e.g. Quarterly newsletter 'The Networker Black Net Solutions'.
6. Development e.g. contributed to the design of the Regional Compact, Infrastructure Strategy South West and the Regional Economic Strategy Delivery Plan 2006-2009 (South West RDA).
7. Consultation services.
8. Knowledge management services.
9. Disseminate information to the sector.
10. Co-ordination of consultation on regional and national policy.
Racism and the South West
Racism and racist incidents is an increasing and significant problem for the South West region. The Rural Racism Project based in Plymouth has identified 4 key contributing factors as to why racism is prevalent in rural areas. Firstly a denial of the existence of black and minority ethnic people by key agencies. Failure to acknowledge the differing needs through a ‘colour blind’ approach to working practices across sectors. There is a belief that racism is somehow confined to urban populations and the lack of empirical evidence to support the claims of victims adds to the problem.
With new and emerging populations making the region home it is crucial that both the public and private agencies promote good racial harmony and work together to ensure fair treatment of all regardless of colour or ethnicity.
Are you interested in joinging the network database?
If you are interested in joining the network database please fill in ESW contact form and return to Equality South West.
Alternatively, please send your name, organisation, brief description of work, email, telephone to Equality South West.
Do you work on race equality issues in the South West?
Please send information (news/blurb/reports/website links) on your work to be added to this website.
For more information about the race network please contact please contact Katie_Pratt or Abbie_Pepperell at Equality South West.
