Groundings is Olmec’s new programme supporting Black and minoritised communities to build economic security, community wealth and collective power.
At a time of rising discrimination, growing pressure on people’s rights and belonging, and deepening social, economic and environmental hardship, Groundings moves beyond simply responding to racial inequality. It supports collaborative, community-led projects that help people to thrive – economically, socially and culturally.
Groundings takes a holistic approach to racial justice. We work with communities to tackle the economic factors that keep people in poverty, while also addressing the unequal social and economic outcomes experienced by many Black and minoritised people.
We recognise that there is no single story of disadvantage – people experience barriers differently, and solutions must start from where people are.
The programme focuses on building community wealth and assets. Generating wealth locally helps strengthen individual economic security, while ensuring that resources flow back into communities and social enterprises. This also helps to deepen social and cultural connections within and between communities.
The name Groundings is inspired by historian and activist Walter Rodney, who described “groundings” as learning through dialogue, respect and shared struggle. In this spirit, Groundings creates space for people to learn together, grow together and take action together to tackle the barriers holding them back.
What Groundings Does
- Develop inspiring social and cultural community outreach activities that connect people
- Co-design training for employability, community and social enterprise development
- Produce collaborative and localised research in support of evidence-based community wealth and asset creation
- Provide materials and resources that help individuals and communities to thrive
Why Race Equality Matters for Economic and Social Justice
Research consistently shows that inequality harms both individuals and the wider economy. Across the labour market, racial inequality remains deeply embedded.
The Institute for Employment Studies (2025) found that ethnic minority groups in the UK:
- Remain under-represented in employment and experience lower pay and slower progression.
- Face barriers to recruitment due to biased hiring practices and inaccessible channels.
- Experience high levels of workplace discrimination – 48% reporting prejudice at work
Beyond employment outcomes, ongoing racism can lead to “racial weathering”, damaging people’s physical and mental health over time. Through Groundings’ anti-racist, community-led approach, people will feel welcomed, valued and supported to pursue their goals.
Free Groundings Resource Guide
Groundings provides a free monthly Resource Guide for individuals and communities. The interactive PDF shares opportunities around employment, training, funding and community support.