Brighton & Hove Pumps £15k Into BME Community Projects
Brighton & Hove City Council has handed out £15,000 in grants to nine grassroots groups boosting wellbeing and fairness for BME residents. Launched in 2020, the BME Engagement Fund backs projects making a real difference in the city’s diverse communities.
Grants Power Unique BME Initiatives
- The Open Minds Project will run Black history guided walks and cover group costs.
- Euro-Mediterranean Resources Network trains BME volunteers to produce community radio and TV celebrating cultural heritage.
- Banyan Tree Theatre Group, led by BME women, will host family-friendly singing workshops as part of their ‘Songs and Sounds of Healing’ project.
- The Black & Minority Ethnic Community Partnership 50+ Group will fund activities and running costs.
- Brighton Black Anti-Racism Community Organisation (BARCO) launches an intergenerational dominoes and vinyl club with their grant.
- Women of Colour Brighton organises a one-day wellbeing festival.
- Brighton Multicultural Women’s Cycle Club encourages women to cycle with group rides and support sessions.
- Ohisama Ahaha offers Japanese language lessons and cultural workshops for families, funded to cover running costs.
- A Seat At The Table supports BME families and children with disabilities with SEND-focused workshops and wellbeing sessions.
How The Fund Works
The BME Engagement Fund is part of the council’s wider Communities Fund, aimed at local voluntary groups and social enterprises with an income under £20,000 yearly. Groups can apply for up to £2,000 per project between April and October. Another round of BME-specific funding is due later this year.
Council Eyes Stronger, Fairer Communities
Brighton & Hove City Council hopes these grants will nurture stronger, more resilient communities. By backing initiatives that promote fairness and improve BME residents’ wellbeing, the city looks set to build a brighter, more inclusive future.
