Young Black people in the UK are set to benefit from a £20m fund, following BBC Children in Need’s announcement that they will match Stormzy’s £10m pledge last month to tackle racial inequality in the UK.
Inspired by Stormzy’s commitment, BBC Children in Need will be matching his pledge of £10m over 10 years and also developing a dedicated new funding programme to support young Black talent to achieve their full potential, working in partnership with BBC Radio 1Xtra.
The charity will work with young people and BBC 1Xtra to develop a plan of action that will support individuals, organisations and groups in all areas of the UK and fund a range of activities that will enhance young Black lives. The programme will be developed in partnership with young people themselves who will be involved throughout the design and delivery process, from naming the new programme to reviewing grant applications and advising on the allocation of funding.
The much-needed financial package will support young social entrepreneurs in making a difference in their local communities, develop young leaders and youth leadership, enable access to education and learning, and develop young people’s skills and confidence for work. Funding applications will be considered by a grant making committee facilitated by BBC Children in Need, which will include young people and volunteers with direct experience of the Black British experience.
“I’m happy to hear that the BBC has also taken up my plea for others to pledge. I’m also pleased to know of their commitment to allow young black people to decide where the money will be spent and I believe this decision is an imperative factor in supporting and strengthening the young black community.”
Stormzy comments: “Further to making my pledge last month, I’m happy to hear that the BBC has also taken up my plea for others to pledge. I’m also pleased to know of their commitment to allow young black people to decide where the money will be spent and I believe this decision is an imperative factor in supporting and strengthening the young black community. We continue to urge others to join us in pledging.”
Kenny Imafidon, Trustee of BBC Children in Need, says: “Over the past few weeks, some of the systematic and institutional racism that exists in the UK has been laid bare open for all to see. This racism is not new and many people from the black community, like myself, have had to endure the negative effects of it all.
“This racism is not new and many people from the black community, like myself, have had to endure the negative effects of it all.”
“The anti-racism movement in the UK has truly gathered momentum to bring about sustainable and long-lasting change. Many people, groups, businesses, and brands have had to reflect, look inwards and ask themselves “what can I, or we do to change things and make a difference?”
“I can speak for the entire Board of Trustees and all the staff at BBC Children in Need when I say, we were really inspired by Stormzy’s pledge. I am excited about this new fund and I truly believe that this is the beginning of greater things to come, as we continue on our mission to support children and young people most in need.”
Further details about the new programme, including how to apply for funding, will be announced in due course.
