Our target groups represent an under-utilised resource of social capital, which has demonstrated its dynamism in hundreds of self-help initiatives across the country. Therefore, the tapping of the human, social and economic potential of faith and community-based organisations in the development of transformation of their local communities cannot be overemphasised.

It is increasingly becoming the case that, in African and African Caribbean communities in London, it is the Faith and Community-based groups that have developed into the leading – and almost the only – robust and sustainable institutions. In the face of decades of adversity, they have become mature and are growing in confidence. Now there is increased desire to be more relevant to the social and economic needs of the local communities they serve – of whatever ethnicity or faith.

Based on our community needs assessments of BME faith and community groups in London and UK, we observed that BME Faith and Community organisations have the capacity and potential to bring greater economic empowerment to their communities. However, there are a number of barriers, which currently prevent them from realising this enormous potential.