Communities and neighbourhoods

Inspiring a generation

We are looking for at least 20 inspirational Black men to become national role models and motivate the next generation of young Black men to aim higher.

Our national Black role model programme - the first of its kind - will tackle a culture of low aspirations and low attainment among some Black boys and young black men.

Some 20 role models will work at a national level, serving as an inspiration to others. They will share their life stories through the media and a new, interactive website, and they will work at a regional level, meeting and inspiring groups of Black boys and young Black men.

They will challenge negative stereotypes, provide a positive image of Black men and directly engage with groups of Black boys and young Black men to encourage and motivate them to do well.

We aim to see a positive impact on the lives of Black boys and young Black men: improved self-image, greater confidence and self-esteem, and pupils doing better at school. Eventually, we hope to see benefits to the economy, communities and society.

"Young Black men want and need to see role models from everyday life who have been successful in business, in retail, as doctors and accountants…it is these men who will provide the most powerful antidote to a growing culture of low aspiration." Communities Secretary Hazel Blears

For more information on the national Black role model programme please visit www.direct.gov.uk/REACH (external link). If you are interested sharing your views on raising aspirations and achievement of Black boys and young Black men please visit our REACH discussion forum.

Communities and Local Government is running a grant competition to seek an organisation to set up, maintain and manage a national role model programme. We are currently inviting Expressions of Interest from organisations who wish to be considered. For more information visit the Role models grant funding programme page below.