We’re excited to share that the Race Equality Foundation and We Can Win are teaming up to deliver a Community Leadership programme for parents in Barking and Dagenham with children in the Early Years.
The project is all about bringing local parents together to form a strong, supportive team. It’s about building confidence in themselves and then helping others do the same. Together, they’ll develop skills in leadership – decision making and problem solving, sharing information and supporting other parents across the community and become community champions.
There’s also a coaching element involved, helping parents grow as individuals while strengthening local networks. It’s community-led and we’re really looking forward to seeing how it develops and where it takes everyone involved!
We’ve already had a fantastic start. The initial information session brought together 20 parents for an inspiring conversation about the importance of leadership and community action. The session was facilitated by Dan Firth, founder of We Can Win, who shared his experience and energy in helping people step into leadership roles. The turnout and enthusiasm from parents showed just how much appetite there is locally for projects like this.
The momentum is building, and we’re excited to begin the first 6-week course in September 2025. And this is just the beginning, there will be a second cohort before the end of the year.
If you are interested in joining or want to learn more, email jade@racefound.org.uk
How can community leadership grow in your area?
If you’re interested in exploring how community leadership can grow from the ground up in your own area, whether you’re a facilitator, local council, policy-maker, third sector organisation, or statutory service, then join us at the 2025 SFSC Conference this Friday 19th September.
Our interactive workshop, “What happens next? From parenting programme to community champion,” will give you the chance to:
- Hear directly from parents about how they’ve become powerful connectors in their communities.
- Explore how parenting programmes can produce peer leaders, trusted advocates, and community champions.
- See real-world examples of parent-led leadership driving grassroots change.
Learn more and book here: https://raceequalityfoundation.org.uk/sfsc-2025-conference/
