BMECP Infrastructure Training & Support for BME Groups in Sussex

Strengthening leadership, resilience, and collaboration for Black and Minority Ethnic organisations across Brighton, Hove, and Sussex.

Programme Overview

Building stronger BME community organisations across Sussex

Over the past year, BMECP has successfully delivered the Infrastructure Training & Support Programme, an initiative designed to strengthen, support, and empower Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) organisations across Brighton and Hove and Sussex. Funded by Voice4Change England, the programme focused on helping community organisations build stronger structures, improve leadership, and develop the skills needed to sustain and grow their work.

Throughout the year, we worked with both established organisations and emerging community groups and individuals. Participants took part in a series of workshops and networking opportunities designed to share knowledge and strengthen the capacity of BME-led organisations.

  • Learn from each other’s experiences
  • Share challenges and practical solutions
  • Build new connections across the BME voluntary sector in Sussex

One of the most important outcomes of the programme has been the relationships and partnerships developed between organisations. By bringing groups together, the programme has helped strengthen collaboration and mutual support within the community.

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What Is the Programme About?

The Infrastructure Training & Support Programme is a comprehensive capacity-building initiative tailored specifically for BME-led and BME-focused organisations. It focuses on key areas critical to organisational success, including:

Governance & Leadership

Strengthen your board, leadership structures, and decision-making frameworks for better accountability and direction.

Fundraising & Bid Writing

Learn how to craft compelling funding applications and diversify your income streams.

Recruiting & Supervising Volunteers

Build strong volunteer programmes that support your mission and promote community involvement.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning

Track your impact effectively and use data to improve your services and reporting.

Strategic Planning

Develop a clear vision, mission, and roadmap to guide your organisation’s long-term success.

Financial Management

Build the skills to manage budgets, reporting, and financial controls with confidence.

Partnership Building & Networking

Create strategic relationships and collaborations that amplify your reach and resources.

Digital Skills & Communication

Boost your digital presence and communication tools to connect with wider audiences.

Sector Wide Voice & Representation

Equip your organisation to engage in advocacy and influence policy on issues that matter to your community.

Participants will have access to workshops, 1-1 support sessions, toolkits, networking opportunities, and ongoing support — all delivered by experienced professionals who understand the unique needs and challenges of BME organisations.

Who Should Attend?

Community Interest Companies (CICs)


Charities and Voluntary Groups


Individuals Planning to Start a Group


Faith-based and Community-Led Initiatives


Grassroots Organisations Working in Marginalised Communities


Funded by

Voice 4Change

Voice4Change England (V4CE), a charity and national advocate for the Black and Minoritised voluntary and community sector (BME VCS) provided funding from their Race Equality and Infrastructure Flexible Fund to support this programme
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What You’ll Gain

By participating in the programme, you will:

01 Strengthen your organisational foundations

02 Gain clarity and confidence in managing your group

03 Develop practical skills to secure funding and resources

04 Improve your visibility and communication

05 Connect with a network of like-minded leaders across Sussex

Why This Matters

BME-led organisations play a vital role in addressing inequalities and driving social change. However, many face structural barriers that limit their growth and sustainability. This programme seeks to change that — by investing in infrastructure, building confidence, and creating opportunities for long-term impact.