The Tees Valley Inclusion Project is a collaborative partnership with local BME (black and minority ethnic) women which seeks to address inclusion. The programme and activity aims to improve health and reduce health inequalities, improve employment and education opportunities and support victims of honour based violence. 

The project is a registered community interest company and the work will focus on a partnership approach with key service providers who can support, advice and implement inclusion strategies and services which support the work of the Tees Valley Inclusion Project CIC. The structure of the project is a business with primarily social objectives whose surpluses are principally reinvested for that purpose in the business or in the community. CICs tackle a wide range of social and environmental issues and operate in all parts of the economy. By using business solutions to achieve public good, it is believed the model we have chosen will provide a distinct and valuable role to play in helping create a strong, sustainable and socially inclusive economy. BME communities still face discrimination and are under-represented in all forms of society, it is hoped the work of the project reduces the gap which exists and empowers individuals and groups to fulfill their potential free from discrimination.

The Project aims both to empower communities and meet the gaps in current service provision by working closely to identify needs and inform service providers of how they can meet the needs and aspirations of BME women across Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, Redcar & Cleveland and Darlington. Tees Valley Inclusion Project CIC will provide opportunities in the following specific strands:

• Employment, Education and Training

• Improve Health and Well-being

• Support Victims of Honour Based Violence

The Steering Group The Steering Group is the governing body of the Tees Valley Inclusion Project. It is responsible for ensuring that the work of the Project is of a high standard and fulfils its objectives as set out above. Steering Group Meetings are held on a quarterly basis and they are chaired by an independent member of the group. MembershipThe steering group membership should include approximately 10 people and maintain a majority of community sector involvement.The Tees Valley Inclusion Project CIC steering group can include:

• Representatives of local BME organisations. This should include BME community organisations including migrant and refugee organisations and local organisations specialising in health issues affecting particular BME groups including migrants and refugees (maximum of 5)

• Directors and secretary (maximum of 4)• Independent Advisor (from Partner organisations)

• Additional members who can provide a useful input to the Steering Group because of their experience and skills Person Specification for Steering Group Members 

• A commitment to equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice

• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team 

• An understanding of the main health concerns of BME communities

• Good communication and interpersonal skills 

• Sufficient status and responsibility within own organisation to be able to raise issues relevant to the Forum and influence decision makers 

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort Additional Information

The Tees Valley Inclusion Project will offer its Steering Group members and their organisations relevant training and support to enable them to fulfil their role successfully.Absence from two consecutive Steering Group meetings without sending apologies, or absence from 4 consecutive Steering Group meetings with apologies will result in the group losing their Steering Group member Status. If a Steering Group member is unable to fulfil their commitments they should make arrangements in for a replacement from their organisation, however where possible support will be provided to ensure individuals can fulfil their duties.The Chair The Chair is appointed by the Steering Group from among the Steering Group members who represent local voluntary and community groups. Job description for the Chair

• Acts as Project main spokesperson. 

• Provides leadership for the Projects Forum steering Group

• Takes an active part in influencing and negotiating with stakeholders on behalf of the Forum and supports the work of the project in raising relevant issues with appropriate bodies

• Signs off the Service Level Agreement between the project and relevant bodies with additional signatory..• Chairs all public meetings organised by the Project

• Represents the Project at appropriate events 

The Tees Valley Inclusion Project CIC is a new project and as such will review the terms of reference and membership within 12 months of running to ensure improvements can be made and additional partners can influence and support the work of the project.

2nd December

Signed:                                                                                            Signed