Research & Publications
Research & Publications
We have supported over 975 African and Caribbean/BME/minoritised communities, community organisations, groups and social enterprises across Scotland. We study, research, evaluate, learn and share our knowledge
Next Step Initiative, with over 17 years tractions have continued to gather high level insights and intelligence on the issues and challenges affecting the African & Caribbeans/minoritised communities across Scotland delivering transformative capacity building services.
Through these insights, tractions and intelligence, we have been able to contribute to and influence national policy decision making processes that addresses the inequalities affecting African & Caribbeans/minoritised communities across Scotland. We have continued to work with Government, Policy makers and researchers to address these challenges over this period.
These issues ranges from…unemployment, dearth of entrepreneurship, poverty, digital and financial inclusiveness These factors often impact on mental health and emotional wellbeing of individuals and further entrenches the vicious cycle of poverty an dependence on welfare benefits…
FROM ACCESS TO LEADERSHIP
The Heritage Leader Traineeship Programme marks an important step toward addressing persistent inequalities within Scotland’s heritage sector.
African and Caribbean communities have long been under-represented in heritage workforces, leadership roles, and decision-making spaces. This programme was designed to challenge that reality by creating structured, practical pathways into the sector.
Through paid traineeships, leadership development, board diversification support, and meaningful community engagement, the initiative has enabled individuals to develop as agents of change while supporting host organisations to reflect, adapt, and grow.
The programme demonstrates that inclusion is not achieved through aspiration alone, but through intentional structures, trusted partnerships, and sustained investment.
By sharing what has worked, what has evolved, and what remains to be done, it is hoped that others will be imbued to build more inclusive, representative, and resilient cultural institutions.
National Recognition & Policy Impact
Next Step Initiative’s work has received formal recognition at a national level through the Scottish Government.
In the Review of the Community-Led Regeneration Approach, delivered via the People & Communities Fund (August 2017), Next Step Initiative was highlighted as an example of effective community engagement and impact (Page 18).
The report states:
“A well thought through approach working at multiple levels of engagement for all involved. This project is a good example of co-production at strategic as well as service user level (where corporate social responsibility meets community engagement).”
The review further recognises Next Step Initiative as:
- A well-established organisation providing a range of services to African and Caribbean communities in Scotland
- A strong example of partnership working with agencies and employers, delivering mutual benefits
- A catalyst for enterprise development, supporting the launch of social enterprises including:
- Catering services
- Virtual media businesses
- Private taxi companies
- Business mentoring organisations
This recognition reinforces the organisation’s role not only as a service provider but as a strategic contributor to Scotland’s community development ecosystem.
NSI-Comic Relief Global Majority Fund Stories of Change Case Studies
More specifically through NSI-Comic Relief GMF Programme, the fundings and capacity building support to these organisations by Next Step Initiative, highlight a shift from consultation to genuine influence in decision-making.
Common themes include strengthening platforms for marginalised voices, ensuring those voices shape agendas, and developing credibility in local and national spaces. These organisations are not only delivering vital services but are also shaping community identity and pride. They are creating safer, more inclusive spaces, challenging harmful narratives, and influencing local systems.
Some of these organisations are being referred to as change makers shaping in the following areas: Employees wellbeing, The cost-of-living crisis and in-work poverty, Hybrid working and burnout, UK immigration complexities, Evolution of Ai and gaps, Entrepreneurship between continents and people management in uncertain times.
As a result, communities report feeling more empowered, connected, and hopeful about their futures.
Recruitment Best Practices Model: An Independent Evaluation Report Commissioned By Arts Council England, Museum Galleries Scotland, Museums Association & Association of Independent Museums
“Next Step Initiative’s Inclusive Museum Heritage Project has been recognised as a Recruitment Best Practices Model by an external evaluation Report September 2016 by BOP Consulting titled ‘Character Matters: Attitudes, behaviours and skills in the UK Museum Workforce’ commissioned by Arts Council England, Museum Galleries Scotland, Museums Association, Association of Independent Museums”
Tackling Inequality & Climate change in Scotland, 2012
A 2012 publication addressing inequality and climate change in Scotland, highlighting the disproportionate impact on marginalised communities and advocating for inclusive, community-led approaches to sustainability and environmental justice.
Engaging African Women in Climate Change in Scotland 2015.
In 2015, NSI engaged African women as household and community leaders in climate change, empowering them to drive awareness, influence sustainable practices, and lead community-based environmental action across Scotland.
Championing Equality, Diversity & Inclusion within the Scottish Heritage Sector Oct 2021
In October 2021, NSI championed equality, diversity, and inclusion within the Scottish heritage sector, supporting underrepresented communities to access opportunities, influence narratives, and participate meaningfully. The initiative strengthened inclusive practices, promoted cultural representation, and empowered individuals and organisations to shape a more equitable and representative heritage landscape across Scotland.
