The black and minority ethnic (BME) third sector can play a key role in meeting needs through partnerships with statutory and mainstream third sector organisations. In the United Kingdom the BME sector is disproportionately affected by government reforms, which involve funding programmes and a contract culture that favour large mainstream charities close to government. BME voluntary and community organisations can feel marginalised and exploited by large organisations that do not appreciate their expertise or understand how they work. 

Authors: Mary Tilki, Rose Thompson, Lisa Robinson, Joss Bruce, Eddie Chan, Orin Lewis, Frank Chinegwundoh and Heather Nelson National BME Cancer Alliance, UK

Black African Caribbean men have a 3-fold higher risk of developing prostate cancer and are more likely to present with prostate cancer at an earlier age (approximately 5 years younger than white British men) and have a higher death rate. These reports were driven and inspired by prostate cancer death rates for UK black men. BMECC was disappointed to learn that in addition to a 3 fold increased risk of developing prostate cancer at younger ages (about 5 yrs younger than expected). Consultant Urological Surgeon and Chair of Cancer Black Care, Dr Frank Chinegwundoh called the report a must-read.

This first evidence-based report aimed at policymakers, health professionals, cancer support groups, community leaders, and anyone with an interest in influencing positive change. The follow-up report entitled Hear Me Now: One Year On, presented compelling evidence to demonstrate that a concerted effort was needed to ensure that those at higher risk of prostate cancer can be identified early and treated effectively. Authored by Dr Rose Thompso CE of BME Cancer Communities (BMECC), the Hear Me Now reports emphasised the fact that prostate cancer in black men is clear health inequality.

A qualitative inquiry into the views of black Caribbean and black African communities on clinical trials, clinical trial enrolment, and clinical research Report Authors: Dr Sophia Skyers, Campbell Kerr and Pauline Johnson

The second Hear Me Now report, which shares communities' experiences and learnings in a call to action to address the burden of prostate cancer in black African Caribbean and black African men.