Lead Partner: North Wales Race Equality Network (NWREN)
Description
The proposed project builds on considerable scoping work undertaken by the North Wales Race Equality Network (NWREN) over the past 24 months which indicates the need to develop effective consultation models between public authorities and black and ethnic minorities (BME) in rural areas. This focus is of particular importance given the policy mandate laid down under statute such as the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 and the Government of Wales Act 1999. These important pieces of legislation place a duty on public bodies in Wales to undertake effective consultation and engagement with minority groups in their area. In addition, initiatives such as the NHS Public/Patient Initiative (PPI) indicate the willingness of health and social care bodies to have direct and effective engagement with their users.
The aim of this action research project is to investigate and evaluate consultation techniques used by key public bodies in engaging with BME households who are ‘hard to reach’ or ‘marginal’ within north Wales’ rural areas with the aim of developing and enhancing strategies for engagement through direct intervention. The project also aims to consider the preparedness, willingness and capacity amongst the BME population to participate in formal dialogue on issues relevant to their health and wellbeing through systematic research. Emphasis will be placed on identifying and developing methods and approaches that empower as well as investigate the views of minorities and on deliberative rather than simply consultative techniques by public authorities.
Contact Details
Tue Hong BakerResearch & Project Development Officer
North Wales Race Equality Network (NWREN)
The Equality Centre
Bangor Road
Penmaenmawr
Conwy
LL34 6LFTel: 01492 622233
Fax: 01492 623707Tue@nwren.org
Website: www.nwren.org.uk