What We Do

FJSS Group is dedicated to driving justice sector reforms in Scotland by advancing racial equality, diversity, and inclusion throughout the justice system. Through a combination of advocacy, community engagement, capacity building, research, and policy influence, we work to create a Scottish justice system that is truly representative and fair for all.

Core Projects and Activities

Black African‑Caribbean Community Drugs Support Project

(Delivered by FJSS Group; funded by National Lottery Community Fund)​

This ongoing project addresses substance misuse and its social impact within Black African‑Caribbean communities in Scotland. We provide culturally sensitive drug support and intervention programmes, raise awareness of substance misuse and related health risks, and engage community stakeholders to reduce stigma and improve access to services. Early evaluations show increased community participation and improved support pathways for individuals and families affected by substance use.​

Mental Health Support Programme

(Delivered by FJSS Group; funded by Scottish Government / Corra Foundation)​

Our Mental Health Support work focuses on improving mental health services and access for marginalised and underserved populations. The programme delivers targeted mental health interventions and counselling, tackles barriers such as stigma and limited resources, and fosters collaboration between health services and community organisations. Initial outcomes indicate improved mental health literacy and increased engagement with appropriate support services.​

Slavery Review Project

(Delivered by FJSS Group with West Lothian Council Museums; funded by National Lottery Community Fund)​

The Slavery Review Project examines historical and contemporary issues relating to slavery in Scotland and its lasting societal impacts. Through time‑limited research, we investigate historical records and current policies to understand systemic effects, inform policy and education programmes on racial justice and equality, and engage communities in discussions about heritage, reparations, and awareness. Early findings have already influenced recommendations for education and community‑based initiatives.​

Accelerated Knowledge Transfer Initiative

(FJSS Group / Edinburgh Napier University)​

This partnership project is focused on creating fairer, more compassionate addiction and justice support for Black communities in Scotland. We are co‑creating a framework shaped by Black individuals with lived experience of substance use and justice involvement and developing pilot training for justice professionals that promotes anti‑racist, trauma‑informed and culturally competent practice. Early progress includes engagement with community members and the design of tailored training approaches for justice sector staff.​

Justice Sector Equalities Conference

Our annual Justice Sector Equalities Conference brings together legal professionals, policymakers, human rights advocates and community leaders to discuss systemic inequalities in Scotland’s justice system. The conference provides a platform for sharing best practice, inspiring action and shaping future reforms in justice delivery.

Cultural Connections Community Events

Through Cultural Connections activities—such as family football events, cycling challenges, communal bake‑and‑share sessions, storytelling and book‑reading events, and Black history and excellence sessions—we foster social cohesion and build relationships across different ethnic and cultural groups. These activities strengthen local networks, encourage cross‑cultural understanding and promote community wellbeing.

Human Rights Community Support and Education

In collaboration with the British Institute for Human Rights, FJSS Group has co‑designed a practical human rights guide to help community members, particularly from Black African communities in West Lothian, understand and assert their rights. We use real‑life stories, workshops and outreach sessions to build confidence around rights such as respect for private and family life and freedom from discrimination.

Youth Empowerment and Skills Development

Through the Heritage Lecture Series, high school debates and other youth‑focused programmes, we equip young people from ethnic minority backgrounds with knowledge, confidence and leadership skills. These activities develop public‑speaking ability, raise awareness of racial justice issues and encourage meaningful youth participation in civic and justice‑related discussions.

Volunteering and Capacity Building

As a largely volunteer‑driven organisation, FJSS Group provides structured training and mentoring opportunities for individuals interested in justice, social advocacy, research, IT, media and community development. Volunteers support project delivery, outreach, events and organisational development while gaining skills and experience that enhance their career and leadership prospects.

Services

Alongside these named projects and programmes, FJSS Group offers a suite of services that underpin and connect all our work:​

• Research‑based policy development support for government and public agencies, including advice grounded in our projects on drugs, mental health, slavery, and racial justice.​

• Anti‑racism awareness and education, delivered through conferences, lectures, schools work, heritage projects and community events.​

• Mental health and drugs support for Black communities, including the Black African‑Caribbean Community Drugs Support Project and our Mental Health Support Programme.​

• Strategic partnerships with government, academic and community bodies, such as Scottish Government, local authorities, Edinburgh Napier University and West Lothian Council Museums, to co‑design more equitable policies and services.​

• Legal, welfare and heritage‑based support, including slavery review work and related community engagement on justice, reparations and policy change.​

• Secretariat and interface support to justice sector networks, helping to coordinate dialogue between communities and justice institutions and ensure Black and minority ethnic voices shape reform.​

FJSS Group continues to be a vital force for change, working tirelessly to ensure Scotland’s justice system is equitable, inclusive and reflective of the country’s diverse population. This alignment of clearly named projects and core services demonstrates how funded work, including the National Drugs Mission–related activity, sits at the heart of our mission to build a fair, just, tolerant and inclusive Scotland.

This comprehensive suite of projects and services embodies FJSS Group’s commitment to building a fairer, more just Scotland where everyone’s voice is valued and heard.