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Rural Racism case study

MEL STILES is a Trustee of the Rural Racism Project (RRP) a volunteer-led organisation operating in Devon and Torbay, which supports people who experience racial harassment and violence and housing, education and policing problems. RRP offers a limited casework service run by experienced community activists, offer solidarity and support at court and advice through the criminal justice process, advocacy in negotiating with the police, councils, schools and housing associations, campaigning, police complaints and assistance with criminal injuries compensation. RRP also offers community anti-racist and hate crime training.

"I became a trustee of the Rural Racism Project because I am passionate about human rights and social justice.

I had worked in the field and wanted to continue to support the work. I know there is a need and I want the work to continue.

I enjoy meeting a diverse range of people and feeling I am able to address problems. It is good working with like-minded people on a specific issue. It has been very beneficial to me I have learnt new skills which have supported my own professional development.

Being a Trustee has lots of challenges. I sometimes find it hard juggling work, social life and being a trustee. It is often difficult to find enough people willing to commit the time and energy to the cause and this can be frustrating and so can the bureaucratic procedures involved in running an organisation!

Despite that I would encourage people, especially young people, to think about becoming trustees.

It is certainly a worthwhile, rewarding experience supporting organisations you believe in. You learn valuable skills, meet interesting people and make good contacts."