Interculturalism – lessons from the field
After 60 years of community relations policies— from assimilation, to multiculturalism, to community cohesion, to a new, Big Society approach— this Interculturalism report asks are we anywhere nearer to solving the problems of integration? And while we're at it: what actually are the problems associated with integration? Based on recent research into the frontline activities the report includes consideration of how integration can be promoted in an age of austerity and the skills community groups need for this.
Secularism, racism and the politics of belonging
‘Secularism, Racism and the Politics of Belonging' is a collection of papers that were presented at conferences in 2010 and 2011 co-organised by the Runnymede Trust and the Centre for Research on Migration, Refugees and Belonging at the University of East London. The contributors address issues of migration, racism and religion.
Race for health
The Black and Minority Ethnic networks and the Health and Social Care network held a joint network meeting in April to look at changes to local NHS services under the NHS reforms and to explore what this means for groups working to reduce health inequalities. For more information contact Derin, Email: derin.adefajo@t3sc.org Tel: 0161 339 4985 ext 2021.
Oliver Barnes from Macmillan Cancer Support and The Christie introduced a new project which will increase breast, bowel and lung cancer awareness in the community. They are now recruiting volunteers for the ‘Let’s be clear get it checked’ project and can come out to talk to your groups about the signs and symptoms to be aware of. For more information: Email: oliverbarnes@nhs.net Tel: 0161 339 4985.
Karan Thomas from the Health Development Consultancy shared their Very Brief Advice training on how to prevent high risk factor illnesses. The training concentrates on smoking, alcohol, physical activity, healthy eating and weight management. They can organise a specific training for members and can come to your group meeting. For more information, Tel: 0161 860 7749.
The need for leadership to redress inequalities
In her report, ‘Close to Parity: challenging the voluntary sector to smash the glass ceiling’, Rowena Lewis sets out to demonstrate how well the voluntary sector is doing on women’s representation in the voluntary sector, to inspire debate and to celebrate the rich diversity of women leaders that drive the sector. She explains that the harsh reality is that voluntary sector women are simply not making it into leadership in the numbers we would expect.
Hate crime survey
Tameside Hate Incident Panel (THIP) are a group of local partners (Police, Housing Associations, Tameside Council and Victim Support) who meet every 6 weeks to look at Hate Crimes within Tameside. THIP are in the process of launching a new campaign to look at all aspects of Hate Crime such as race, religion, sexual orientation, transgender identity and disability.
This will focus on supporting victims rather than targeting the perpetrators. They are asking members of the public to help them understand what the focus of the campaign should be. Fill in the survey online.
Deadline: End of May 2012.
For more information: Email: shain.miah@tameside.gov.uk Tel: 0161 342 2412.
EHRC publishes strategic plan
The Equality and Human Rights Commission has published its strategic plan for the next three years. Its three strategic priorities will be: To promote fairness and equality of opportunity in Britain’s future economy; to promote fair access to public services, and autonomy and dignity in service delivery; and to promote dignity and respect, and safeguard people’s safety.
Free English for speakers of other languages courses
This course includes computer and classroom based learning, helping to build confidence and learn the language. Citizenship and the law are also discussed. The course will lead to an exam to achieve a recognised qualification at entry level ESOL.
The course is for nine hours a week, 9.30am-1pm, Monday-Friday, and runs for 10-12 weeks.
To be eligible for the course, a person must have lived in the UK for less than 10 years (proof required – passport and visa) and not hold a UK or EU passport. No refugees. Visa status has to be one of the following: indefinite leave to remain, spouse, settlement, partner, tier 1 work permit, family re-union, sponsorship. People on JSA are eligible so long as they fit the criteria. The minimum age is 18 year.
For more information: Tel: 0161 870 5747 Email: Siobhan.merron@internationallearningcentre.com
Whose voice is it anyway?
The ‘Whose Voice is it Anyway?’ conference was organised by National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA) for staff in local infrastructure organisations interested in getting the voice of local groups heard and voluntary and community sector development workers, activists and volunteers.
This event was organised to help local groups find practical ways to influence mainstream political thinking and communicate more effectively. The day included live theatre, social media, face-to-face conversations and networking. Contributions will include Stuart Etherington, Chief Executive of NCVO, the Dead Earnest Theatre, Oxfam, The Young Foundation and Carnegie UK Trust.
