Lack of recognition for minority resident groups
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Housing providers should work with marginalised groups to create better communities, according to a report.
The government-funded study, Harnessing the Talents of Marginalised Communities, says there is a ‘lack of understanding’ of self-established refugee community organisations and they are often ‘operating below the radar’.
Patricia Jones and Safraz Hussain, the authors of the paper published by the charity Race Equality Foundation, say these groups are often self-motivated and well organised.
The report says: ‘Changes in housing policy, such as the reconfiguring of small and black and minority ethnic housing associations, makes recognition of and engagement with newly emerging groups all the more urgent.
‘Recent studies show that marginalisation is linked to structural barriers within society; for instance, institutionalised racism and a lack of political will.’
Marginalised groups become visible, credible and respected partners when their role is formally recognised by housing providers, it adds.
They are not necessarily hard to reach, the authors write, but ‘what is often missing is the role of an “independent” partner with commitment, skills and a track record of trust building to help partnerships realise statutory recognition of their worth’.
The paper also says: ‘Community development practice with marginalised groups requires a value base that seeks to transform negative attitudes, realign resource distribution and build better, stable relationships with newly emerging, as well as with more established, black and minority ethnic groups.
‘Working alongside marginalised groups in this way, and encouraging them to act as a “critical friend”, is an established method of addressing their needs and aspirations in service provision.
‘Recognition of the value of engaging with groups that operate “below the radar” is the first step in building trust. Over time, shared trust between service provider and marginalised communities can create a mutually beneficial and ongoing relationship.’
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Readers' comments (1)
Peter | 15/03/2010 3:53 pm
I am slightly confused with the report as to who are the 'marginalised group/communities'. I am sure these people would not like to be considered that they are marginalised. Nevertheless, there are plenty of opportunities available if you have prepared to look. Like all pioneers of the past, you will have to learn very quickly on how to adapt. If you cannot speak the language, you must learn and if you haven't a skill, you learn a trade/skill. If you don't, you have marginalised yourself!
Why are these groups operating "below the radar"? What are they hiding from and what are their expectations and why aren't contributing towards that?
If I decide that I wanted to live in China, I will first learn Mandarin plus a local dialect too. I will also look for job opportunities where a skill could be learned quickly. I integrate with the local community as quickly as possible. Quickest way to learn language and make friends. But , I would not be expecting the Chinese authorities or people to support my needs and aspirations unless I am part of their aspirations and consciousness.
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