Local authorities have a key role in inspiring young black men to reach their full potential. A new report, commissioned by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG), has called for stronger partnerships between councils and voluntary groups to tackle educational underachievement among the black community. The independent REACH report, published last week, looked at how communities, local agencies, parents, local and central government could work together. The report warned joint working to improve local job prospects also had to be a part of the solution. REACH chairman, Clive Lewis, said: ‘We need to create a new culture where young black men look up less to rappers and more to successful young black role models in their communities, such as doctors, lawyers, community leaders and others.' The report recommends the formation of a black-led consortia of voluntary and community sector organisations and a national framework of family-school partnerships for black families. For councils, this could mean the development of parent-centred learning workshops, encouraging more black parents to become school governors and teaching assistants, and helping develop an action plan for the taskforce. Cohesion minister, Parmjit Dhanda, made his first announcement on priorities for equality. Following publication of the second Improving opportunity, strengthening society annual progress report, Mr Dhanda highlighted tackling the inequalities of Muslim women and young people as his key priorities. He said: ‘I want to make sure the Government is doing all it can to open doors to women and young people regardless of their background. ‘Across public services and across government, we need to continue to take steps which are needed to deliver greater equality and build strong communities.'
