Our Centre Manager, Juliet, and Community Engagement Officer, Obi, attended on behalf of BMECP, joining others for an afternoon of learning, reflection and remembrance.

The exhibition explored the many ways Black histories are connected to and woven into the history of churches, communities and wider society. It was also an important reminder that Christian history has many faces and includes stories from communities across the world.

Discovering stories within Christian history

Throughout the event, we had the opportunity to hear about people, projects and histories that are not always widely known.

We learnt more about Project Spire and the work being undertaken to explore and better understand Black history within church spaces.

Kwesi Ochosi also shared the story of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, offering an opportunity to learn more about an important figure within African and Christian history from a p

erspective many of those attending may not previously have encountered.

Another important contribution came from Flo Sparham, whose reflections challenged those attending to think beyond simply celebrating Black History Month during October.

Her contribution emphasised that recognising Black history and celebrating diversity become more meaningful when they influence our attitudes, behaviours and practices throughout the rest of the year. Black History Speech_original

She also reflected on the importance of creating cultures of belonging in our institutions and communities, asking us to consider who is visible, who has a voice and whose stories are being heard.

Remembering the Ugandan Martyrs

One particularly meaningful part of the event was the opportunity to remember and honour the Ugandan Martyrs.

BMECP was privileged to participate in this moment of remembrance, with our Centre Manager, Juliet, reading their names on behalf of the organisation.

It was a simple but powerful opportunity to remember the lives and experiences of people whose stories form part of a much wider Black and Christian history.

History, identity and community empowerment

At BMECP, much of our work focuses on supporting people and communities to access opportunities, develop skills, build relationships and participate more fully in the wider community.

But empowerment is not only economic or practical.

It is also about identity, representation, belonging and understanding the histories that have shaped us.

Creating opportunities to hear these stories helps ensure that histories which may previously have been overlooked or marginalised become part of our shared understanding.

It is also why Black History Month should provide more than a mom

ent of celebration. It can create opportunities for communities to listen to one another, learn from the past and consider what we want our institutions and communities to look like in the future.

We would like to thank Vitalis Ngwambi, Racial Justice Co-ordinator at the Diocese of Chichester, for coordinating the event and for inviting BMECP to participate.

Our thanks also go to all the speakers, contributors and everyone involved in bringing the Black History in Church Spaces exhibition together.

BMECP was delighted to be part of the conversation and to continue learning alongside our wider community.

The event was designed to support individuals from Black and Minority Ethnic communities to connect directly with employers and organisations in a space where they feel represented, welcomed, and comfortable. By bringing employers into the heart of the community, we aimed to break down barriers to employment, build confidence, and create meaningful opportunities for attendees to explore their next steps.

Bringing Employers and Communities Together

We were delighted to welcome 10 employers and organisations from a range of sectors, providing attendees with the opportunity to learn about vacancies, apprenticeships, training programmes, volunteering opportunities, and career pathways.

Participating organisations included:

• Wates
• Sussex Police
• Brighton & Hove City Council
• Kingdom People
• NHS
• Community Works
• Govia Thameslink Railway
• Afro Hair Academy
• And other local employers and support organisations

Throughout the day, attendees were able to engage in one-to-one conversations with employers, ask questions, gain insights into different industries, and discover opportunities that matched their interests and ambitions.

A Diverse Range of Attendees

One of the highlights of the event was the diversity of people who attended. We welcomed:

• College students exploring future career options
• University students seeking work experience, placements, and graduate opportunities
• Individuals looking for employment
• People considering a career change
• Community members looking to develop new skills and explore training opportunities

The event provided a valuable platform for attendees at different stages of their professional journey to access information, advice, and connections that can help shape their future careers.

Positive Feedback from the Community

The feedback received from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive.

Many participants appreciated seeing employers come directly into a community space where members of Black and Minority Ethnic communities feel comfortable and represented. Attendees highlighted the value of having direct access to employers in an informal and welcoming setting, allowing them to ask questions, build confidence, and learn more about potential career pathways.

We were particularly pleased to receive positive feedback from Brighton MET ESOL students, who praised the organisation of the event and welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with employers. For many students, the fair provided a unique chance to learn more about the local labour market, develop their professional networks, and gain confidence in speaking with prospective employers.

Showcasing Opportunities at BMECP

Alongside external exhibitors, BMECP volunteers were on hand throughout the day running our own information stand.

The team spoke with attendees about volunteering opportunities within BMECP, the support services available through the organisation, and ways to become more involved in community activities and projects. These conversations highlighted the important role volunteering can play in building skills, confidence, networks, and pathways into employment.

Support from Our Trustees

We were also delighted to welcome two of our Trustees, who joined us during the event to show their support and engage with both employers and attendees.

Their presence reinforced BMECP’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for our communities and fostering strong relationships with employers and partners across Sussex.

Looking Ahead

The success of the Employment & Careers Fair demonstrates the value of creating spaces where employers and communities can connect directly. Events like this help open doors, build confidence, and ensure that people from diverse backgrounds can access the information, networks, and opportunities needed to thrive.

We would like to thank all the employers, organisations, volunteers, trustees, and attendees who contributed to making the event such a success.

We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to create opportunities that support inclusion, employment, and community empowerment across Brighton & Hove and Sussex.

Interested in future events, training opportunities, or volunteering with BMECP? Follow our social media channels and keep an eye on our website for upcoming opportunities.

BMECP is delighted to celebrate the successful completion of the first Fostering Pathways Programme for BME Communities, which ran from 13 May to 1 July 2026.

Over eight weeks, participants came together to explore fostering within a supportive, culturally informed environment. The programme was designed to address a key challenge within the fostering sector: the underrepresentation of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BME) foster carers and the need for more children in care to be placed in homes that reflect their culture, identity, faith, and lived experiences.

Throughout the programme, participants engaged in meaningful discussions around the UK fostering system, the needs of children in care, cultural identity, common misconceptions about fostering, financial considerations, and the role of foster carers. The sessions provided a safe space for questions, reflection, and honest conversations about the barriers that can sometimes prevent BME individuals and families from considering fostering.

One of the programme’s most significant achievements was its impact on participants’ confidence and understanding of fostering. Many attendees reported that the sessions helped challenge long-held myths and provided information that was previously difficult to access.

The programme also gained wider recognition when facilitator Shelley Hurley appeared on BBC Sussex Radio in May, helping to raise awareness of fostering and encouraging more BME individuals and families to explore the opportunities available to them.

We are particularly proud to share that two participants from the first cohort have decided to take the next steps towards becoming foster mums. This is a powerful testament to the programme’s success and its ability to inspire meaningful action. Both participants completed the programme, received their certificates, and shared heartfelt testimonials about their experiences, highlighting the value of learning alongside others in a welcoming and supportive community.

The programme’s success was further strengthened through collaboration with the Brighton & Hove Fostering Team, who met with BMECP to discuss joint approaches to increasing engagement with BME communities and ensuring that more people have access to accurate information about fostering.

As we celebrate the achievements of our first cohort, we remain committed to creating pathways that empower more BME individuals and families to consider fostering. Every child deserves a safe, nurturing home where they feel understood, represented, and connected to their culture and community.

With the first cohort now complete, we look forward to welcoming participants to Cohort 2, starting in September 2026, and continuing this important journey of learning, awareness, and community impact.

Children deserve homes that reflect who they are. Together, we can help make that a reality.

At BMECP, we recognise that access to funding remains one of the greatest challenges facing many Black and racially minoritised community groups. While community organisations continue to deliver vital services, champion community voices, and tackle local inequalities, navigating the funding landscape can often feel complex and inaccessible.

The Meet the Funders event was designed to help bridge this gap by creating a welcoming space where funders and community organisations could connect directly, share knowledge, and build relationships.

Hearing Directly from Funders

Attendees had the opportunity to hear presentations from a diverse range of funders and organisations, including:

• Arts Council England
• Brighton & Hove City Council
• Govia Thameslink Railway
• National Lottery Community Fund
• Sussex Community Foundation
• The Ambergate Charitable Trust

Each funder shared valuable insights into their funding priorities, application processes, eligibility criteria, and practical tips for submitting successful funding applications.

The presentations provided attendees with a clearer understanding of the opportunities available and encouraged open conversations around the realities and challenges of applying for funding.

Meaningful Conversations and New Connections

One of the highlights of the event was the networking marketplace session, where community groups had the opportunity to engage directly with funders in an informal setting.

These conversations allowed organisations to:

• Ask specific questions about their projects and ideas
• Explore potential funding opportunities
• Learn about wider support available beyond funding
• Begin building relationships with funders and partner organisations

The energy in the room reflected a shared commitment to strengthening communities and creating more accessible pathways to funding and support.

More Than Funding

While the focus of the event was funding, many conversations extended beyond grant applications. Participants learned about employment opportunities, community engagement initiatives, partnership possibilities, and future programmes that could benefit the communities they serve.

The event reinforced the importance of creating spaces where communities and decision-makers can meet face-to-face, share experiences, and identify opportunities for collaboration.

Thank You

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of the funders who generously gave their time, expertise, and support to make the event possible.

We would also like to thank the many community groups, charities, volunteers, and grassroots organisations who attended and contributed to the rich discussions throughout the day. Your commitment to supporting and uplifting communities across Sussex continues to inspire us.

Looking Ahead

The success of Meet the Funders 2026 demonstrates the value of bringing communities and funders together in meaningful ways. At BMECP, we are committed to building on this momentum by creating more opportunities for learning, collaboration, and community development.

We look forward to continuing these conversations, strengthening partnerships, and supporting Black and racially minoritised communities to thrive.

Together, we can create stronger connections, greater opportunities, and more sustainable futures for the communities we serve.

Date: 17 September 2026
Venue: BMECP Centre
Attendance: 30 attendees, including community members, representatives from Black and minority ethnic community organizations, policy experts, racial justice and equality experts and representatives from the Positive Action Team and Community Police at Sussex Police

Executive Summary

The Stronger Together: Community & Police event successfully created a safe and constructive space for dialogue between Black and minority ethnic communities and Sussex Police. Participants engaged openly on issues relating to trust, representation, stop and search, mental health, community safety, police visibility, and accountability.

A particularly positive aspect of the session was the openness of police representatives, who acknowledged both progress and areas where significant work remains to be done. Participants welcomed the honesty shown by police representatives, particularly where they acknowledged gaps in data, understanding, and service provision.

The aim of the event was to create a formal feedback loop between communities and the police to monitor progress and maintain accountability.

Key Themes Emerging from the Discussion

1. Recruitment, Representation and Retention of BME Officers

Participants welcomed the increase in Black, Asian and Global Majority representation within Sussex Police but expressed concern that representation remains below the level of the wider population. Questions were also raised regarding retention and career progression within the police service. Police representatives noted that attracting and retaining officers from minority ethnic backgrounds remains a challenge and that “stay interviews” are being used to better understand staff experiences.

Community Concerns

• Underrepresentation of BME officers.
• Lack of publicly available data on retention.
• Limited understanding of why minority ethnic officers’ leave.
• Career progression and leadership opportunities.

Requested Actions

• Share updated recruitment and representation data.
• Provide information on retention initiatives.
• Share career progression data for BME officers where possible.
• Continue engagement with BME communities to support recruitment.

2. Stop and Search: Transparency, Trust and Accountability

Stop and search generated significant discussion. Community members expressed concerns regarding disproportionality, unconscious bias, and the impact of stop and search on trust in policing. There was a strong call for greater transparency around data, outcomes, intelligence-led policing, and accountability mechanisms for officers.

Community Concerns

• Lack of understanding of how stop and search decisions are made.
• Perceived racial disproportionality.
• Impact of unsuccessful searches on community trust.
• Concerns regarding unconscious bias.

Requested Actions

• Share stop and search data and outcomes.
• Explain how intelligence informs stop and search decisions.
• Provide information about officer accountability measures.
• Promote community participation in the Stop and Search Scrutiny Panel.
• Report back on any disproportionality monitoring undertaken.

3. Building Trust and Confidence

Several participants reflected on how trust in the police can be influenced not only by individual experiences but also by the experiences of family members and wider communities. Young people in particular were identified as a group requiring greater engagement.

Community Concerns

• Historical experiences continue to influence perceptions.
• Limited direct engagement with younger people.
• Need for relationship-building outside crisis situations.

Requested Actions

• Increase police participation in community events.
• Develop youth-focused engagement opportunities.
• Build stronger relationships with community leaders and organisations.

4. Mental Health and Policing

Mental health emerged as a major concern. Participants questioned how police respond to individuals experiencing mental health crises and whether officers have sufficient support and training. Discussion highlighted the previous existence of specialist mental health support teams working alongside police and concerns following reductions in such provision.

Community Concerns

• Inappropriate criminalisation of mental health crises.
• Impact on BME men and those from culturally diverse backgrounds.
• Use of force during crisis situations.
• Lack of specialist support.

Requested Actions

• Share information on current mental health training.
• Clarify existing partnerships with health services.
• Explore opportunities to restore specialist mental health support.
• Consider the cultural competence of mental health responses.

5. Community Safety and Local Businesses

Business owners raised concerns about theft, anti-social behaviour, and interactions with vulnerable individuals, particularly around London Road and Western Road. Participants also highlighted reduced visibility of local police patrols.

Community Concerns

• Impact of theft and anti-social behaviour.
• Limited knowledge of local officers.
• Reduced visible policing.

Requested Actions

• Improve visibility of local policing teams.
• Promote access to local neighbourhood officers.
• Increase engagement with community businesses.
• Consider targeted reassurance patrols in affected areas.

6. Data, Evidence and Community Accountability

One of the strongest themes across the entire meeting was the need for more data. Participants consistently requested both qualitative and quantitative information to better understand trends, identify issues, and measure progress over time.

Requested Actions

• Share available data where possible.
• Explain what data is collected and how it is used.
• Establish agreed indicators to monitor progress.
• Report back regularly to the community.

Proposed Joint Action Plan for Next Meeting

Outcomes Achieved

• 30 community members and stakeholders attended the event.
• Two attendees expressed interest in becoming Community Advocates.
• Community & Police meetings will now be regular to create a sustainable feedback mechanism between communities and the police.
• Community priorities and concerns were clearly identified and documented.

BMECP is proud to be part of Food Use Places, a Brighton & Hove Food Partnership programme that brings together 18 organisations across Sussex to reduce food and packaging waste and support community-led climate action. The programme is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and works with trusted, community-rooted organisations to help create a new culture of using food wisely and reducing unnecessary waste.

Food Use Places is based on a simple idea: too much food is wasted, while valuable resources are lost through avoidable food and packaging waste. The project helps communities develop practical skills, knowledge and confidence to waste less, reuse more, and make positive changes that benefit both people and the planet.

As part of this 12-month programme, BMECP will engage Black and Minority Ethnic communities across Brighton & Hove, ensuring that people who are often underrepresented in climate action initiatives have opportunities to participate, learn and lead.

Through workshops, events and community activities, participants will explore:

• Food waste reduction
• Recycling and sustainable packaging practices
• Composting and food growing
• Cooking with surplus ingredients
• Food sharing and community meals
• Simple ways to reduce waste at home and in the community

BMECP is committed to creating an inclusive space where communities can connect, learn and drive positive change together. Through this project, we will empower residents with practical skills and knowledge that support healthier communities and a more sustainable future. This work aligns with the wider Food Use Places mission of minimising food’s impact on the environment through collective action and community collaboration.

Why it matters

Around one-third of all food produced is wasted. Food Use Places aims to address this challenge by helping communities adopt a “food use” mindset, where food is valued, shared and used effectively rather than discarded. Working together, communities can reduce waste, save money, improve food security and contribute to climate action.

About Food Use Places

Food Use Places is a partnership project led by Brighton & Hove Food Partnership and delivered by 18 organisations across Sussex. The programme supports communities through composting, food growing, food sharing, surplus food redistribution, waste reduction, and recycling initiatives.

To learn more about Food Use Places, visit: https://bhfood.org.uk/project/food-use-places/

BMECP is delighted to celebrate the successful completion of the first Fostering Pathways Programme for BME Communities, which ran from 13 May to 1 July 2026.

Over eight weeks, participants came together to explore fostering within a supportive, culturally informed environment. The programme was designed to address a key challenge within the fostering sector: the underrepresentation of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BME) foster carers and the need for more children in care to be placed in homes that reflect their culture, identity, faith, and lived experiences.

Throughout the programme, participants engaged in meaningful discussions around the UK fostering system, the needs of children in care, cultural identity, common misconceptions about fostering, financial considerations, and the role of foster carers. The sessions provided a safe space for questions, reflection, and honest conversations about the barriers that can sometimes prevent BME individuals and families from considering fostering.

One of the programme’s most significant achievements was its impact on participants’ confidence and understanding of fostering. Many attendees reported that the sessions helped challenge long-held myths and provided information that was previously difficult to access.

The programme also gained wider recognition when facilitator Shelley Hurley appeared on BBC Sussex Radio in May, helping to raise awareness of fostering and encouraging more BME individuals and families to explore the opportunities available to them.

We are particularly proud to share that two participants from the first cohort have decided to take the next steps towards becoming foster mums. This is a powerful testament to the programme’s success and its ability to inspire meaningful action. Both participants completed the programme, received their certificates, and shared heartfelt testimonials about their experiences, highlighting the value of learning alongside others in a welcoming and supportive community.

The programme’s success was further strengthened through collaboration with the Brighton & Hove Fostering Team, who met with BMECP to discuss joint approaches to increasing engagement with BME communities and ensuring that more people have access to accurate information about fostering.

As we celebrate the achievements of our first cohort, we remain committed to creating pathways that empower more BME individuals and families to consider fostering. Every child deserves a safe, nurturing home where they feel understood, represented, and connected to their culture and community.

With the first cohort now complete, we look forward to welcoming participants to Cohort 2, starting in September 2026, and continuing this important journey of learning, awareness, and community impact.

Children deserve homes that reflect who they are. Together, we can help make that a reality.

At BMECP, we recognise that access to funding remains one of the greatest challenges facing many Black and racially minoritised community groups. While community organisations continue to deliver vital services, champion community voices, and tackle local inequalities, navigating the funding landscape can often feel complex and inaccessible.

The Meet the Funders event was designed to help bridge this gap by creating a welcoming space where funders and community organisations could connect directly, share knowledge, and build relationships.

Hearing Directly from Funders

Attendees had the opportunity to hear presentations from a diverse range of funders and organisations, including:

• Arts Council England
• Brighton & Hove City Council
• Govia Thameslink Railway
• National Lottery Community Fund
• Sussex Community Foundation
• The Ambergate Charitable Trust

Each funder shared valuable insights into their funding priorities, application processes, eligibility criteria, and practical tips for submitting successful funding applications.

The presentations provided attendees with a clearer understanding of the opportunities available and encouraged open conversations around the realities and challenges of applying for funding.

Meaningful Conversations and New Connections

One of the highlights of the event was the networking marketplace session, where community groups had the opportunity to engage directly with funders in an informal setting.

These conversations allowed organisations to:

• Ask specific questions about their projects and ideas
• Explore potential funding opportunities
• Learn about wider support available beyond funding
• Begin building relationships with funders and partner organisations

The energy in the room reflected a shared commitment to strengthening communities and creating more accessible pathways to funding and support.

More Than Funding

While the focus of the event was funding, many conversations extended beyond grant applications. Participants learned about employment opportunities, community engagement initiatives, partnership possibilities, and future programmes that could benefit the communities they serve.

The event reinforced the importance of creating spaces where communities and decision-makers can meet face-to-face, share experiences, and identify opportunities for collaboration.

Thank You

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of the funders who generously gave their time, expertise, and support to make the event possible.

We would also like to thank the many community groups, charities, volunteers, and grassroots organisations who attended and contributed to the rich discussions throughout the day. Your commitment to supporting and uplifting communities across Sussex continues to inspire us.

Looking Ahead

The success of Meet the Funders 2026 demonstrates the value of bringing communities and funders together in meaningful ways. At BMECP, we are committed to building on this momentum by creating more opportunities for learning, collaboration, and community development.

We look forward to continuing these conversations, strengthening partnerships, and supporting Black and racially minoritised communities to thrive.

Together, we can create stronger connections, greater opportunities, and more sustainable futures for the communities we serve.

Through engaging discussions, participants have shared their perceptions of fostering—many shaped by longstanding misconceptions. With the guidance of facilitator Shelley Hurley and co‑facilitator Juliet Ssekitoleko, these beliefs have been thoughtfully unpacked and challenged. Conversations have addressed common myths that often act as barriers for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities, while highlighting the urgent need for more culturally reflective foster homes. 

The programme has also extended its reach beyond the sessions. On 22 May 2026, Shelley Hurley appeared on BBC Sussex Radio, further raising awareness about fostering and addressing misconceptions that continue to affect participation among BME individuals and families. 

Across the first two weeks, topics have included an introduction to the fostering system, exploring motivations, and understanding the realities of becoming a foster carer. As the programme continues, it promises to equip participants with knowledge, confidence, and support—helping more people take meaningful steps towards transforming the lives of children in care.

At the event, Juliet N Ssekitoleko, Project, Marketing & Fundraising Manager, and Chukwudumebi Obi, Community Engagement Officer, shared BMECP’s work in supporting health and wellbeing within Black and minority ethnic communities, and our ongoing commitment to reducing health and care inequalities through community‑led approaches.

We also valued hearing from Bridging Change and Sussex Interpreting Services, whose work continues to play an important role in improving access and inclusion.

The session included insightful discussion on Health Counts data with the Public Health team at Brighton & Hove City Council, alongside updates from NHS Sussex on equalities monitoring, highlighting how data can meaningfully inform service design and contribute to better health outcomes.

Our sincere thanks to Magdalena Pasiut and Dr. Maria Antoniou for their excellent organisation and facilitation, and for creating space for open, constructive dialogue. We’re grateful for the opportunity to contribute and to be part of these important conversations.