History of FJSS Group

FJSS Group (Fair Justice System for Scotland Group) was founded in 2012 in West Calder, West Lothian, Scotland, with the vision to promote racial equality, diversity, and fairness in Scotland’s justice system. The creation of FJSS Group was driven by a pressing need to address the underrepresentation of ethnic minority communities in all areas of Scottish justice—courts, police, policy formulation, and advocacy. The organization was established as a grassroots legal charity, uniquely positioned to champion policy reforms and drive positive, structural changes within the sector.

Founding and Early Years (2012–2015):
FJSS Group was officially registered as a charity on January 17, 2012, with a mandate to promote equality by encouraging the employment and appointment of ethnic minorities into Scotland’s justice system. Silence Chihuri, who is recognized as the founder and CEO, played an instrumental role in establishing the organization’s core principles—valuing diversity, empowering marginalized communities, and promoting fair representation throughout the structures of Scottish justice institutions.

Building Partnerships and Advocacy (2015–2020):
Over the following years, FJSS Group actively developed partnerships with the Scottish Government, Judicial Institute for Scotland, Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service, and Police Scotland, among others. The group’s influence expanded through collaborative policy initiatives, the launch of annual Equalities Conferences, and interactive Justice Sector Roundtables, which became highly recognized sectoral events and forums for change and strategy development.

FJSS Group invested considerable effort in expanding its volunteer workforce and held a range of innovative programs, such as Heritage Lecture Series and high school debate projects, to empower BAME youth and raise awareness around modern and historical issues of racial justice. Their advocacy led to increased BAME representation in key justice sector bodies and shaped important reforms at both the community and institutional levels.

Sector Impact and Achievements (2020–Present):
FJSS Group’s sustained work led to meaningful policy changes and greater visibility for ethnic minority challenges and contributions within Scotland’s justice landscape. In recent years, it has been frequently cited in government planning documents and sectoral reports as a vital stakeholder in driving person-centered, trauma-informed, and collaborative approaches to justice reform.

Today, FJSS Group continues to advocate for racial equality and fair representation in Scotland’s justice sector. It has become internationally recognized for meaningful cross-sector partnerships and its role as a catalyst for reform and inclusion in Scottish society. Anchored by dedicated volunteers and a strong leadership team, FJSS Group remains committed to building a fair, just, and inclusive Scotland for present and future generations.

FJSS Group’s journey from a grassroots charity to a recognized voice for social and legal equality in Scotland stands as a testament to the power of committed advocacy, partnership, and vision.