A GROUP created to help improve the lives and opportunities of black, Asian and minority ethnic communities in Basildon has received a cash boost from the borough council.

Councillors have agreed to sign a partnership agreement with Basildon Side by Side, (BSBS) a social movement by the Basildon community set up back in June 2020, that will see them receive a £10,000 grant for the upcoming financial year.

The grant for the 2022/23 year will support their work with individuals, groups, and communities, with the partnership allowing BSBS and the council to work together to promote inclusion and diversity to help the borough become a fairer and more equal society with greater community cohesion.

The funding for the upcoming year will be part of a three-year partnership agreement, with the financial support for year's two and three to be agreed at a subsequent committee meeting.

Chairman of the council's communities and wellbeing committee Cllr Terri Sargent said: "Basildon Side by Side are already doing great work to make Basildon as inclusive and equal for all.

"I'm delighted that we have committed to supporting BSBS through our new partnership agreement, and the £10,000 grant funding will allow the group to continue its growth, and we as a council will continue supporting the group in a number of other ways to bring about real change and help the diverse communities in our borough to reach their full potential."

Basildon Side by Side was set up after the council held a meeting with local community leaders to understand the barriers and disparity the ethnic groupings in the borough, and the group was formed to bring about change.