ROMA REFUGEE AND MIGRANT FORUM Ambition: The ambition of the Forum is to tackle poverty, inequality and exclusion faced by Roma communities in London. Aims: The aim of the forum is to improve the life chances of Roma communities in London. This will be achieved through:  The empowerment and involvement of Roma advocates and mediators  The critical assessment of current Roma inclusion strategies at both a local level and at a national level (as they impact on the position of Roma in London)  The exchange of information and knowledge between members of the Forum The forum will provide an opportunity for agencies, service managers/front line staff and Roma activists to meet regularly to consider:  Roma perspectives on current issues  Provision of information and intelligence about the nature of current issues facing Roma communities and service providers  Opportunities for developing initiatives designed to address inequalities, poverty and exclusion of Roma In so doing it is hoped that the Forum will be a way of forming an effective alliance between Roma communities and service providers and so strengthen efforts to tackle issues of inequality, poverty and social exclusion. Outcomes:    

Enhanced social inclusion of Roma refugees and migrants in London. Greater awareness about Roma-specific needs among statutory agencies and local authorities Empowerment of Roma community members through community engagement, their participation, sharing best practice, building alliances. Enhanced confidence of Roma advocates by being able to voice their opinions.

Who should attend?   

Roma Support Group will chair and service the meetings It is expected that Roma advocates will be present at each meeting It is expected that agencies/service providers will be represented by staff who are in a decision making position to attend/and on occasion, staff who have a specific responsibility for particular provision (including front line provision)

Meetings:  

A minimum of four times a year Between the forums, we will have the opportunity to hold sub-group meetings to look into specific subjects of interest.

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Agendas will be circulated one week before the Forum. All agencies will be encouraged to suggest items for inclusion on the agenda At the end of the year, an annual report from the forum will be produced.

Membership: The Forum consists of all those working with Roma communities in London who support the ambition and aims of the Forum and is open to new members by invitation. Point of contact: Roma Support Group staff and/or other identified Forum members.  [email protected]  0207 511 73 43 Monitoring and review: Regular Forum members will be asked to provide feedback on the Forum’s performance. Actions: Members of the Forum will be responsible for circulating the actions within their organisations and informing back on progress. Administration: Writing and distribution of agendas and minutes will be administrated by Roma Support Group. Absence: If a member is unable to attend, nominated representative should attend if possible. Otherwise, apologies should be given one week before the forum.