Agenda item

Each of the action plans was discussed in turn, in relation to the forum’s agreed outcomes. The action plans are a starting point to agree forum work and projects. The forum discussed the financial element to the action plans, with some projects requiring a modest amount, and others asking for a lot more without any in-depth budgetary information. VR explained that there is not an unlimited amount of money to fund these projects, and that the funding will come from the forum submitting an application to the NBC small grants pot, which is administered by NCF.  It was requested that Rachel McGrath is invited to a future forum meeting to give an overview of how the NBC small grants pot is administered. ACTION: AM to send an invitation.

1)    Multi-cultural festival – Zimwomen

AR raised concerns about far right activity at the same event in 2013 – need to promote positive messages of anti-racism. Need to minimise risk.

Forum agreed in principle for this event to be on action plan

VR explained that each project will be on the agenda as the time comes closer, for planning etc. Ownership will still sit with the lead organisation; however the planning process will be more inclusive etc.

2)    Platform for all community information to be promoted and published.

NA told the forum that there she has experienced poor communication for BME community groups, especially from NCC. In terms of connecting with BAME groups, NA suggested that BMESRP are in good position to do this.

AR added that another key body for connecting with BAME groups is Inspiration FM.

The forum agreed that they are in support of this action plan.

The forum then discussed further issues they face with communication with organisations. NA felt that the three organisations she represents (IHWO/BMESRP/NIFF) have experienced improvements in engagement and communication since AM and VR have been in post.

JC told the forum that she still has experienced difficulties with volunteers from Inspiration FM contacting NBC’s Communications team.

ACTION: VR to pass on JC’s concerns, and to follow up a way to improve the dialogue

3)    Play/film

Suzanna Storey, lead on this activity, was not present at the meeting to discuss the action plan. JR felt that this project would be a good way of bringing groups together. However, it was felt by others in attendance that this project could not be discussed until the person leading the activity is present. It was agreed ‘in principle’ this would be accepted onto the action plan for future development, and would be discussed at a later date.

4)    Diwali

The forum discussed this item, and agreed that it would be good if the forum can help facilitate and support all celebrations. This type of project is a celebration of diversity, and an opportunity to show that NBC want to support BAME celebrations. The forum agreed that it would be a good idea to have a calendar of multi-cultural events, which will raise awareness of all that goes on. This will link to the action plan for a communication platform. It was suggested that in the future the forum look for funding to support BAME celebrations, and to facilitate collaborative working.

In principle, the forum agreed that they were happy for Diwali to sit on the action plans.

5)    WW1 commemoration.

RH (Nubiwise) as lead on this project, explained that this activity would be an evening event, focused on World War One and recognising the contribution made by the commonwealth. WB suggested that story telling would be a good element to this type of project; providing other people with the opportunity to talk about personal stories of local people and their families, reinforcing their historical link with this country and sharing their experience of the wars and how they effected them. RH confirmed that he is also part of the Northampton Black History project.

Again, in principle, the forum agreed for this project to sit on the action plans, to be discussed further at a later meeting.

6)    HIV testing awareness.

WB outlined this proposal (see action plan table for detail). This project is focused on awareness and reducing stigma. To be discussed at a later meeting.

7)    Suggestions for Forum focus

JC raised a number of issues for forum focus, including:

-       Stop and search for recording when stopped.

-       Public service announcements to publicise local events supported by the forum

-       Housing – BME needs/strategy

-       Schools – underachievement / hate crime

-       Zero working hours contracts

-       Northants Police – BME recruitment drive

-       HMO’s

-       Northampton Faith communities profile and places of worship – audit and needs assessment

-       Northampton Carnival – changes to venue etc.