Recruiting for 2011/12 MP Shadowing Scheme

OBV in partnership with the Department of Communities and Local Government is now recruiting for 25 people for the 2011 Parliamentary Shadowing Scheme.

Following the 2010 general election, which saw a historic rise in the number of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) MPs, there are currently 27. However, a more representative parliament would see between 55-60 BME MPs.

The Parliamentary Shadowing Scheme is designed therefore to nurture a new generation of BME leaders by giving them the opportunity to see life in Westminster and in the constituency, understand the policy process and become a Parliamentary Ambassador, encouraging others to get involved.

If you've got the passion, conviction, enthusiasm to make a real difference to your local community and wider society and can commit 10-12 non-consecutive days over five months then we want to hear from you.

Highlights from last year's scheme include:

• Three Shadows are standing in the 2011 local elections
• Two are in the early stages of the parliamentary selection process
• One will be taking up a position within a MPs office while two other have applied for positions
• One Shadow is the chair of his constituency party
• One is the chair of his local (branch) party

To find out more, or for an application form please call 020 8983 5426 or email mp@obv.org.uk. You can also download application form here. For further information about the scheme and case studies of recent successes please download this brochure (PDF).The deadline for submitting completed application form is Monday the 1st of August 2011, 12 noon.