ICOS (International Community Organisation of Sunderland)
International Community Organisation of Sunderland (ICOS) exists to improve the quality of life of BME (Black and Minority Ethnic) people in the North East and to enhance community cohesion and intercultural understanding. They focus on ensuring equal access to information and services, particularly for those who lack access.
What’s been happening:
ICOS have partnered with a few artists, mainly Sabrina Sallis to create a space to celebrate culture alongside art. Some of their workshops include working with Polish women to develop creative skills and sessions leading up to a food festival, which celebrates different cultures. ICOS is trying to integrate art and culture into their space to create greater community cohesion and an intercultural understanding that celebrates art. They are also running sessions that celebrate other creative skills like pierogi and ongoing creative retreats to Burnlaw Community Centre.
This project is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit UK Shared Prosperity Fund: prospectus - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
