Our Impact

Our Impact Across African, Caribbean, and minoritised Communities In Scotland

We rigorously evaluate and monitor our work to ensure that we are always improving, learning, developing and delivering the best service. We use both a community and person-centred approach and value every individual’s voice.

Employment

Next Step Initiative (NSI) has supported over 3,150 African, Caribbean, and minoritised individuals into skills development, volunteering, employment, and job placements since 2009. Through targeted training programmes, mentorship, and partnership working, we have improved access to opportunities and reduced barriers to employment. Our approach focuses on building confidence, enhancing employability, and creating pathways into sustainable careers. By connecting individuals with meaningful opportunities, NSI continues to drive economic inclusion, empower communities, and support long-term personal and professional growth across Scotland.

Capacity Building to Social Enterprises & Community Organisations

Next Step Initiative (NSI) has delivered extensive capacity-building support to over 975 African, Caribbean, and minoritised community organisations and social enterprises across Scotland. Through tailored training, mentorship, and strategic guidance, we have strengthened governance, leadership, financial management, and operational effectiveness. Our approach empowers organisations to become more resilient, sustainable, and impactful within their communities. By supporting growth, innovation, and collaboration, NSI enables these organisations to access new opportunities, secure funding, and deliver high-quality services. This ongoing investment in people and structures ensures long-term community development and a stronger, more inclusive third sector across Scotland.

Fuel Poverty

Through targeted fuel poverty reduction initiatives, Next Step Initiative (NSI) has supported over 3,600 individuals within Afro-Caribbean communities across Scotland. By providing access to energy advice, financial guidance, and practical support, we have helped households reduce energy costs and improve living conditions. Our work addresses inequality, promotes sustainability, and ensures vulnerable communities are better equipped to manage rising energy challenges.

Funding

Over the past 17 years, Next Step Initiative (NSI) has played a pivotal role in strengthening African, Caribbean, and minoritised communities across Scotland through strategic funding and support. We have successfully secured and distributed over £3.7 million to grassroots organisations, enabling them to deliver impactful projects, build organisational capacity, and drive sustainable development. This funding has supported a wide range of initiatives, from community engagement and cultural programmes to employability and wellbeing projects. By investing in local leadership and innovation, NSI continues to empower organisations to grow, thrive, and create lasting change within their communities.

Heritage Sector

Developed and deployed the 1st led BME national Recognised Traineeship and accredited programme within the Heritage Sector across Scotland, creating 34 paid placements for African & Caribbean and minoritised communities acquiring skills, experience and direct employment with the sector. With over 5000 new audiences from BME communities accessing, influencing, having a voice, & learning about various services; with over 90 volunteers been aware and engaged with the sector

Climate Change across Scotland

Developed and deployed the 1st BME-Led climate change initiative in Scotland. This work and our publications’’ Tackling Inequality & Climate Change in Scotland’, led to equality been included as a target within the climate change fund. Today as a result of this work and our campaign, £15 million has been secured for BME organisations across Scotland and 90 fully funded projects by the Climate Change Fund.