Black-led community organisations across Ealing are being invited to apply for funding and support from a new initiative that aims to tackle health and wellbeing disparities in the borough.
Funded by the NHS and developed in partnership with Ealing and Hounslow CVS (EHCVS), the Ealing Roots & Wings Grant aims to help Black-led organisations support improvements in health across the borough.
A statement announcing the launch of the Ealing Roots & Wings Grant, described it as: “Backed by the NHS and developed in response to recommendations from the Ealing Race Equality Commission (REC), the programme empowers grassroots organisations, charities, and faith groups to lead change within their communities.”
The statement added: “Black communities in London, including Ealing, face significant health disparities, such as higher rates of chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension and persistent barriers to accessing culturally relevant healthcare. In its 2022 review, the REC highlighted these inequalities and called for more excellent representation of Black voices in health leadership and service delivery.”
Gurpreet Rana, CEO of EHCVS said: “At the heart of this programme is a commitment to breaking down systemic barriers that have held Black communities back for too long. The Roots & Wings Grant isn’t just funding—it’s an investment in the organisations and leaders tirelessly working to create healthier, more equitable futures for Ealing’s Black communities.”
Councillor Polly Knewstub, the council’s cabinet member for healthy equal lives said: “Together with our partners, we are excited to be launching the Ealing Roots and Wings Grant Programme. This has come as a direct result of the demands from the Ealing Race Equality Commission to empower Black communities to have a greater voice in health decision making, and recognises the importance that our small community organisations have in supporting the health and wellbeing of our residents.”
More details on the initiative and how to apply can be found here. Closing date is 20 January 2025.
