21st July 2008.
SBS High Court funding appeal a victory for all BME Third Sector
V4CE has welcomed the decision in the case brought by users of the Southall Black Sisters domestic violence service against Ealing Council’s withdraw of its funding as ‘a victory for commonsense in ensuring racial equality’.
According to Vandna Gohil: ‘This decision tells all local councils to cease with any moves to stop funding race and equalities groups. Rather, they should engage in an honest dialogue on funding that recognises the crucial contribution made by the Black and Minority Ethnic Third Sector to promoting cohesion.’
She added: ‘Defeat for the SBS users would have meant the loss of a vital support service and given a green light to the wholesale withdrawal of funding for BME Third Sector organisations.’ ends
Further details and comment from Martin Ball, Head of Campaigns on 020-7843 6131.