York Racial Equality Network (YREN) have been reducing racial inequality in York for 25 years. To mark this historical milestone a report has been produced giving an account of all the work they have done.
The report highlights a wide range of issues faced by local Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) residents over the years showing the multiple types of inequality, including poor housing, difficulty accessing employment and services, social isolation and variable educational attainment.
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation also noted in 2010 that racism has been a growing problem with rising figures for hate crime in York, which YREN has a key role in helping to monitor, acting as an independent Hate Crime Reporting and Support Centre.
YREN provides regular monthly community activities called The Friendship Project for people from all communities and ages, with the aim of reducing social isolation and providing a supportive environment for people to make friends and build links to the wider York community.
Yvie Holder, Founding Chair of YREN stated:
YREN’s strength has always been that it is founded on the experiences of those living in the community and on drawing people together. It has always been open: everyone is welcome if they support YREN’s aims, whatever their background.
YREN are always looking out for volunteers. So if you would like to be involved, get in touch: info@yren.co.uk or phone us on 01904 642600
