10 black-led organisations will receive £5,000 of funding thanks to a new programme to help address health inequalities in the borough.
The Ealing Roots & Wings grant programme aims to empower underrepresented voices, address health challenges and build stronger, more inclusive communities within the borough.
It has been backed by the NHS and developed in partnership with Ealing Council, Ealing and Hounslow Community and Voluntary Service (EHCVS), and Voices of Colour.
The programme is open to small, black-led charities, faith groups and grassroots organisations committed to improving health and wellbeing, including social connection, housing, education, mental health or financial wellbeing.
Applicants must have a turnover of less than £200,000 and at least 50% of their board or leadership identify as African or Caribbean. The deadline for applications is Monday 20 January 2025.
Why this matters
The Ealing Roots & Wings grant programme was started in response to a review from the Ealing Race Equality Commission (REC).
The review, carried out in 2022, highlighted that black communities in London, including Ealing, face significant health inequalities, such as higher rates of chronic illnesses like diabetes.
As a result of the review, Ealing REC called for better representation of black voices in health leadership and service delivery to help address these issues.
Councillor Polly Knewstub, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for healthy equal lives, said: “Together with our partners, we are excited to be launching the Ealing Roots & Wings Grant Programme. This has come as a direct result of the demands from the Ealing Race Equality Commission to empower black communities to have a greater voice in health decision-making and recognises the importance that our small community organisations have in supporting the health and wellbeing of our residents.”
Gurpreet Rana, CEO of EHCVS, added: “At the heart of this programme is a commitment to breaking down systemic barriers that have held black communities back for too long. The Roots & Wings Grant isn’t just funding – it’s an investment in the organisations and leaders tirelessly working to create healthier, more equitable futures for Ealing’s black communities.”
Training for community leaders
As part of the programme, senior leaders from the winning 10 organisations will receive peer research training to better understand their community’s needs.
They will also attend group sessions to identify health barriers and work together on finding effective solutions, whilst meeting similar organisations and receiving training opportunities, tailored to their needs.
If your organisation fits the criteria, you can apply for the grant programme via the EHCVS website.
Applications close on Monday 20 January 2025.
For more information, please email development@ehcvs.org.uk
