FJSS Group

The FJSS Group believe that real change begins with collective action and a shared vision. We are dedicated to championing racial equality and diversity within the Scottish justice system, striving for a more inclusive workforce that truly reflects modern Scottish society. Our ultimate goal is to foster a people-focused community and social justice agenda across Scotland. By coming together, we can amplify voices, drive vital reforms, and build a truly equitable future. We invite you to discover how you can become an integral part of this crucial movement.

Our Impact: Real Voices, Real Change

At the FJSS Group, our commitment translates into tangible results, touching lives and shaping policy. Consequently, we are incredibly proud of the progress we've made alongside our community.

Stories & Testimonials: Here, we will regularly feature compelling success stories that highlight the positive changes brought about by our work. These narratives will showcase how our advocacy, support services, and policy influence directly benefit individuals and communities. You'll hear directly from those who have received legal advice, mental health support, or seen the direct impact of our anti-racism initiatives. Furthermore, we will include powerful testimonials from our valued partners, illustrating the strength of our collaborations with government agencies, legal bodies, and community organizations.

Get Involved: Be a Part of the Solution

Your involvement is essential to our mission. There are many ways to contribute to the FJSS Group's work and help us build a fairer justice system for everyone.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Our work relies heavily on the dedication of volunteers. Therefore, if you have time or expertise to offer, whether in research, administrative support, event coordination, or outreach, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our 'Volunteer' section to view current openings and apply.
• Donate & Fundraise: Financial contributions are vital to sustaining our programs, research, and advocacy efforts. Indeed, every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference. You can make a secure online donation through our website, or consider organizing a fundraising initiative within your own community or workplace.
• Partnerships & Collaboration: We actively seek to build strategic partnerships with other organizations, legal professionals, academic institutions, and community groups. Together, we can achieve far greater impact. If your organization shares our values and vision, we invite you to connect with us to explore collaborative opportunities.
• Spread the Word: One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to help is by raising awareness. Thus, we encourage you to share our mission and work with your networks. Follow us on social media, discuss our initiatives with friends and family, and subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed and help us reach a wider audience.

Resources & Learning Hub: Empowering Knowledge for Justice

Knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight for justice and equality. Consequently, we are committed to providing accessible resources that empower and inform our community.

Here you will find:

• Publications & Reports: Access our in-depth research, policy briefs, and reports that inform our advocacy and influence justice sector reforms. These documents provide crucial insights into racial equality and diversity within the Scottish justice system.
• Educational Materials: Explore a growing collection of resources designed to enhance anti-racism awareness and education. This includes articles, FAQs, and links to reputable external sources that shed light on systemic issues and solutions.
• Relevant News & Updates: Stay abreast of the latest developments from the FJSS Group and the broader justice landscape. This section will feature news articles, press releases, and updates on our initiatives and policy work.
• Glossary of Terms: For clarity and understanding, we've compiled a simple glossary of key terms related to the justice system and racial equality.

Community Forum: Your Voice Matters

This moderated forum is designed to be a safe and inclusive space for our community to connect, share, and discuss critical issues. Here, you can engage in constructive dialogue about racial equality within the justice system, share your experiences, ask questions, and offer support to others.

• Discussion Topics: We will curate discussion threads on key areas of our work, including Windrush compensation, anti-racism initiatives, mental health support for Black people, and ongoing justice reforms.
• Guidelines: To ensure a respectful and productive environment, all users are expected to adhere to our community guidelines, which prioritize respectful communication and constructive engagement.

Events & Engagements: Connecting, Collaborating, and Catalysing Change

At the heart of the FJSS Group’s mission lies a vibrant calendar of events, each carefully designed to serve a multifaceted purpose: to educate, to empower, to advocate, and to unite our community in the pursuit of a fairer and more equitable Scottish justice system. Our events are not merely gatherings; rather, they are dynamic platforms for dialogue, learning, and collective action, representing the pulsating rhythm of our advocacy work.

About FJSS Group

Through these engagements, we bridge divides, foster understanding, and galvanise support for the systemic changes we champion. We firmly believe that direct interaction, shared knowledge, and collaborative effort are indispensable drivers of meaningful reform.

The Diverse Spectrum of Our Events: What to Expect

Our event portfolio is intentionally broad, reflecting the complex and interconnected nature of racial equality and justice. Consequently, we offer a range of formats tailored to different audiences and objectives, ensuring that there are always accessible and impactful ways for you to engage.

1. Workshops & Training Sessions: Building Capacity and Fostering Understanding

These interactive sessions are fundamental to our mission of empowering individuals and fostering an informed populace. Specifically, they delve into critical topics with practical applications.

• Anti-Racism Awareness and Education: These workshops are cornerstones of our educational outreach. They provide participants with a deeper understanding of systemic racism, its historical roots, and its pervasive impact within the justice system and broader society. Sessions often include facilitated discussions, case studies, and practical tools for identifying and challenging discriminatory practices. Furthermore, we equip attendees with the vocabulary and critical thinking skills necessary to become more effective allies and advocates.
• Legal Rights and Advocacy Skills Training: Aimed at empowering individuals, particularly those from racially marginalised communities, these sessions demystify the Scottish legal system. We offer insights into individual rights, legal processes, and how to navigate common challenges. Moreover, for those keen to take a more active role, we provide training in advocacy skills, enabling participants to articulate their experiences effectively, communicate with policymakers, and contribute to campaigns for change. These workshops are particularly vital for Windrush victims and other affected groups seeking compensation and justice.
• Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Workshops: Recognising the unique challenges faced by Black people within the justice system and beyond, these sessions offer culturally sensitive mental health and wellbeing support. To illustrate, these might cover topics such as coping with racial trauma, accessing support services, and promoting self-care within communities. They are safe spaces designed to foster resilience and connection.
• Community Leadership Development: We believe in nurturing leadership from within the communities we serve. These workshops focus on developing skills in community organising, project management, and effective communication, preparing individuals to lead initiatives that address local needs and contribute to wider advocacy efforts.

2. Seminars & Webinars: Expert Insights and Policy Discussions

Our seminars and webinars provide a platform for in-depth analysis and expert commentary on pressing issues related to justice, equality, and policy. These sessions are designed to engage a wider audience, including legal professionals, academics, policymakers, and interested members of the public.

• Policy Briefings and Discussion Forums: As a grassroots legal charity that provides research-based policy development support for government agencies, we regularly host seminars to discuss emerging policy proposals and their potential impact on racial equality. Often, these events feature leading experts, academics, and policymakers, fostering an environment for robust debate and constructive feedback.
• Justice Sector Reforms: Given our active role in shaping policy formulation and development with key stakeholders like the Scottish Government, Judicial Institute for Scotland, Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service, and Police Scotland, we organise seminars to dissect and discuss ongoing reforms within the justice sector. This ensures our community remains informed and can provide input into critical changes.
• Academic and Research Showcases: We collaborate with researchers and academics to present cutting-edge findings related to racial disparities in the justice system. In essence, these events serve to ground our advocacy in robust evidence and stimulate further academic inquiry.
• "Meet the Expert" Sessions: These provide unique opportunities to hear directly from legal professionals, social justice advocates, and community leaders who are at the forefront of the fight for equality. Participants can engage in Q&A sessions, gaining direct insights and inspiration.

3. Public Consultations & Policy Engagement Forums: Your Voice, Direct Impact

A cornerstone of our advocacy is ensuring that the voices of those most affected by injustice are heard directly by decision-makers. Therefore, our public consultations and policy engagement forums are designed to facilitate this crucial direct dialogue.

• Direct Feedback Sessions: We host sessions where community members can provide direct feedback on proposed legislation, policy changes, and justice initiatives. Significantly, this input is meticulously compiled and presented to relevant government bodies and policymakers, ensuring that lived experiences inform legislative processes.
• Strategic Dialogue with Stakeholders: These forums bring together community representatives, FJSS Group leadership, and key figures from the Scottish Government, Police Scotland, and the Judicial Institute for Scotland. The aim is to foster open communication, identify areas for improvement, and collaboratively strategise pathways for reform. Our role as secretariat support for the Justice Sector Interface Group positions us uniquely to facilitate such high-level engagements.

4. Community Gatherings & Networking Events: Building Bonds and Solidarity

Beyond formal learning and advocacy, we recognise the profound importance of community. Consequently, our informal gatherings are vital for fostering solidarity, sharing experiences, and building strong networks.

• Community Meet-ups: Regular, informal gatherings held in various locations to allow community members to connect, share stories, and build personal relationships in a relaxed setting. These events are crucial for fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.
• Cultural Celebrations: Events that celebrate the rich diversity of Scotland's Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities. These help to build cultural understanding, break down barriers, and reinforce the positive aspects of a multicultural society.
• Networking Mixers: Opportunities for legal professionals, students, community leaders, and advocates to connect, share ideas, and explore potential collaborations, strengthening the collective power of the social justice movement in Scotland.

5. Fundraising Events & Awareness Campaigns: Fueling Our Mission

To sustain our vital work, fundraising and awareness events are indispensable. These events not only generate crucial resources but also significantly raise our public profile and broaden our base of support.

• Benefit Galas and Dinners: Formal events featuring speakers, entertainment, and fundraising appeals, often attracting high-profile attendees and significant donations.
• Community Fundraising Challenges: Engaging initiatives such as sponsored walks, runs, or other challenges that encourage community participation and generate funds through individual and team efforts.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: These might involve street activations, information stalls, or public art installations designed to draw attention to specific issues and encourage public engagement and support.

6. Collaborative Events with Partners: Amplifying Our Reach

We firmly believe in the power of collaboration. Indeed, by partnering with other organisations, we can pool resources, share expertise, and amplify our collective impact.

• Joint Workshops and Seminars: Co-hosted events with academic institutions, legal firms, other charities, and community groups to address shared concerns and reach a broader, more diverse audience.
• Cross-Organisational Campaigns: Participating in or co-leading larger campaigns with partner organisations to advocate for specific policy changes or to raise widespread awareness on critical issues.

The Purpose and Impact of Our Events: Driving Tangible Change

Each event, regardless of its format, is meticulously planned to contribute to our overarching mission. Ultimately, the impact of our events reverberates across various dimensions:

• Education & Awareness: Our events serve as critical educational platforms, illuminating the complexities of racial inequality within the justice system. Consequently, they aim to raise public consciousness, challenging misconceptions and fostering a more informed and empathetic society.
• Community Building & Empowerment: By creating spaces for dialogue and connection, our events empower individuals who may have felt isolated by their experiences of injustice. They facilitate the formation of support networks, strengthen community bonds, and inspire collective agency.
• Advocacy & Policy Influence: Many of our events directly feed into our advocacy efforts. Therefore, they provide vital opportunities to gather lived experiences, present evidence-based research, and engage directly with policymakers, influencing legislative and systemic reforms. Note G, which guides our commitment to rigorous data collection and ethical engagement, is particularly relevant here, ensuring that all feedback and insights gathered during public consultations are meticulously documented and responsibly utilised to inform our policy recommendations. This adherence guarantees the integrity and impact of our advocacy.
• Skill Development: Through workshops and training, we equip individuals with practical skills in areas such as legal literacy, advocacy, and community organising, enabling them to navigate complex systems and become agents of change in their own right.
• Fundraising & Resource Generation: These events are crucial for generating the financial resources necessary to sustain our operations, expand our programs, and ensure our independence as a grassroots legal charity.

How We Organise Our Events: A Commitment to Inclusivity and Excellence

Organising impactful events requires meticulous planning and a deep commitment to inclusivity. Our process is guided by several key principles:

• Accessibility: We strive to make all our events as accessible as possible. This includes considering physical accessibility, offering online/hybrid options where feasible, and providing language support when necessary.
• Community Input: Many of our events, particularly workshops and community gatherings, are shaped by direct input from the communities we serve. This ensures that our offerings are relevant, responsive, and truly meet the needs of our stakeholders.
• Collaboration: We frequently collaborate with community leaders, local organisations, and subject matter experts to co-design and deliver events, leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise.
• Safety and Respect: All FJSS Group events are governed by strict codes of conduct to ensure they remain safe, respectful, and constructive environments for all participants.
• Measurement and Evaluation: Post-event, we gather feedback and assess the impact against our goals. This continuous evaluation allows us to refine our approaches and enhance the effectiveness of future engagements.

Participating in Our Events: Your Gateway to Action

Engaging with the FJSS Group through our events is straightforward and impactful. We encourage everyone passionate about justice and equality to get involved.

• Finding Upcoming Events: Our website's 'Events' calendar is regularly updated with details on all upcoming activities. You can filter by event type or date to find what interests you most. We also announce events through our newsletter and social media channels.
• Registration Process: For most events, pre-registration is required to help us manage capacity and provide necessary materials. The registration process is designed to be simple and user-friendly, with clear instructions provided on each event listing.
• Accessibility Information: Each event listing will include specific details regarding accessibility, including venue accessibility, virtual participation options, and any available language support.
• Opportunities to Speak/Present: If you have expertise or a lived experience that aligns with our event themes and you wish to contribute as a speaker or panellist, please contact us. We are always eager to incorporate diverse voices and perspectives.

Highlighting Past Events: A Legacy of Impact

Our history is punctuated by successful events that have driven significant change and fostered profound connections. For instance, a recent landmark event was our national conference on 'Racial Bias in the Scottish Judiciary,' which brought together over 300 legal professionals, academics, and community advocates. The insights shared and the recommendations formulated at this conference are now actively being presented to the Judicial Institute for Scotland and the Scottish Government, demonstrating the direct policy influence of our gatherings.

Another example is our series of regional 'Windrush Compensation Clinics,' which directly supported dozens of victims in navigating complex legal processes, offering crucial advice and emotional support. The testimonials received from these attendees powerfully underscore the difference these events make on an individual level. Our annual 'Justice For All' community festival in West Lothian consistently draws hundreds, serving as a vibrant celebration of diversity and a powerful platform for sharing information about legal rights and community support services. These past achievements serve as a testament to the power of coming together and are a clear indication of our ongoing commitment.

Our Future Vision for Events: Expanding Our Reach

Looking ahead, the FJSS Group is committed to expanding the reach and impact of our events. We plan to leverage more innovative technologies for wider participation, particularly for those in remote areas of Scotland. We aim to increase the frequency of our regional workshops and establish more localized community hubs, ensuring that our support and advocacy efforts are accessible to all corners of the nation. Ultimately, our vision is to create an even more robust, interconnected network of individuals and organisations, all working collaboratively through these dynamic engagements to build a truly equitable and just Scotland. Your participation is not just attendance; it's a vital contribution to this shared future.

Meet the Team: The Faces Behind the Fight for Justice

Our dedicated team and passionate volunteers are the driving force behind the FJSS Group's mission. Therefore, we believe it's important for you to meet the individuals committed to championing racial equality in Scotland. Here, you will find brief profiles of our key members and community leaders, highlighting their roles and their unwavering commitment to creating a fairer justice system for all.

We value your feedback, questions, and ideas. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us.