Website of the UK government

The creation of the first ever Black boys' national role model programme is part of a package of measures to help raise the aspirations and attainment of some of today's young Black men.

Hazel Blears wants to encourage Black and mixed heritage men from all walks of life to come forward and play a part in lifting the sights of young Black boys.

A national modelling programme was one of the recommendations made to government by an independent panel made up of members who had an in depth understanding of the realities of the lives of Black boys and the barriers they face to success. The government has responded positively to their report and is committed to taking action on all the REACH recommendations.

Too often role models can be celebrities and those who glamorise a world of crime, drugs, guns and gangs. The national role modelling programme will seek to challenge stereotypes, shine a light on positive images of Black male achievement - from businessmen to doctors, lawyers, artists and community workers. REACH is about getting these positive images onto the radar and ensuring that more young people know that every route is open to them.

Hazel Blears said: "There needs to be a collective effort to combat underachievement and low aspirations amongst our young Black men. These kids need realistic alternatives to show them that every opportunity is available to them. There are thousands of role models out there who offer great examples for Black boys to follow. This programme is about harnessing their potential, making them more visible and getting more young people on the right track."

At least twenty national role models will be selected by an independent panel comprising fashion designer and businessman Ozwald Boateng, entrepreneur Tim Campbell, founder and Director of Operation Black Vote Simon Woolley and Metropolitan Police Superintendent Leroy Logan along with four young Black men."

Once recruited the national role models will share their stories in a variety of ways, including events and visits to meet with young Black men across the country. This will be community led, but might include schools, youth clubs and young offender institutes. As well as these specific visits the message and story of the role models will be amplified through use of podcasts, webchats and wider media activity.

As well as a national role modelling competition the government is currently taking forward a range of measures aimed at boosting the aspirations and attainment of Black boys and young Black men. £1 million has been made available to support these activities.

Further information

Males of all ages from a Black African, Black Caribbean or Mixed Heritage background are encouraged to apply to be a national role model and can get more information on the REACH website.

• Reach Opens new window