The Labour government is reviewing the previous Conservative plan to raise the minimum income requirement for British workers seeking to bring their families to the UK. The threshold, originally set at £18,600, was scheduled to increase to £38,700 by 2025 as part of the Conservatives’ strategy to reduce net migration by 300,000 annually.

However, the current government, in line with recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), is reassessing the appropriate income level for family visas to create a fairer system. This review may result in the scrapping of the planned increases, which have faced criticism for potentially separating families.

Campaign groups like Reunite Families have welcomed the review, stating that the current and proposed thresholds have placed undue hardship on many families. The MAC is expected to report back in nine months.

Why are more Black Britons applying to Oxford University?

According to the facts and figures report published by Oxford University, “the number of UK-domiciled students with Black African or Black Caribbean heritage applying, receiving offers, and being admitted has increased from 2019 to 2023.” 

The proportion of UK-domiciled students identifying as Black on their UCAS applications rose from 3.2% in 2019 to 3.6% in 2023.

Oxford University recognised that, historically, Black British students have been underrepresented, with only 1.1% of Black or Mixed Black ethnicity students studying at the university a decade ago. However, in recent years, several factors—including institutional changes and broader societal shifts—have contributed to a rise in applications from Black students. 

To address racial disparities in admissions and retention, Oxford University has made a visible commitment to improving diversity and inclusion. Outreach programs specifically targeting underrepresented groups, including Black students, have been introduced in collaboration with schools, community organisations, and prominent Black role models. This has made Oxford feel more welcoming and accessible to Black Britons.

The increased media attention on the success stories of Black students at Oxford over the past decade has also played a significant role in shifting the conversation around access to elite institutions like Oxford. These success stories have inspired more Black Britons to view Oxford as an attainable goal.

In 2019, Oxford University launched  UNIQ Summer Schools, which provide students from underrepresented backgrounds with the opportunity to experience university life and receive guidance on applying. New College Oxford has also partnered with academic organisations to create scholarships for economically disadvantaged Black British students. 

One example is the Robert Allen Perkins Scholarship, which offers a fully funded place at Oxford to Black British students who qualify for an Oxford Bursary (with a household income below £42,875) and have been accepted to the university. The scholarship covers full course fees and provides a significant grant towards living costs, allowing recipients to graduate debt-free.

Another initiative, the Black Academic Futures Scholarships, provides financial support for UK Black and Mixed Black students pursuing graduate studies at Oxford. These scholarships are open to all academic subjects and are made possible through the generous support of funding partners across the university and its colleges.  Also, most students from low-income families hoping to study at Oxford University have been invited to look for the Crankstart Scholarship.

Each scholarship covers full course fees and includes a grant for living expenses throughout the recipient’s studies.

According to the Oxford University website, the eligibility for these scholarships is open to UK residents who identify as Black or Mixed Black ethnicity and hold an offer for a postgraduate taught or research degree starting in the 2025-26 academic year. This includes all full-time and part-time DPhil and master’s programs. Applicants must have been ordinarily resident in the UK for three years before starting their course, excluding time spent in the UK primarily for full-time education. Most of these scholarships support students across the university and are available for all subject areas, with some funding dedicated to specific courses.

Why are more Black Britons applying to Oxford University? https://aukradio.co.uk/why-are-more-black-britons-applying-to-oxford-university/

Can recent anti-immigration protests impact the British sense of hospitality?

The recent riots in England and Northern Ireland, driven by far-right movements, have sparked deep concerns and uncertainty among black British and other communities. As the nation grapples with these troubling events, how these developments affect community cohesion has become increasingly pressing.

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During the unrest, a noticeable shift in the atmosphere was observed within Black and Asian communities in the south-east of England, particularly in Luton, renowned for its rich and diverse ethnic makeup. Often seen as opportunities for cultural celebration and community bonding, some of these events or outdoor gatherings were suddenly deemed too risky due to the potential for violence and unrest. Local church leaders provided safety tips and advised to call Bedfordshire Police if necessary.

Despite local authorities safeguarding all communities, warning of possible further unrest due to anti-immigrant and racist views, communities remained on guard.
This atmosphere of caution and fear was further intensified by a shocking incident in Middlesbrough, where Brendan Nwabichie, a Nigerian healthcare assistant, had his car set on fire outside his flat. This act was a reminder that the Black community was a target.
In areas like Luton, which has long been known for its ethnic diversity and multiculturalism, these riots have tested the strength of unity, solidarity and community cohesion.
Leaders stressed that while it is important to remain cautious, it is equally vital to continue fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support within the community.

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AUKRADIO reached out to representatives from different Black British communities, including those of Nigerian, Congolese, and Ghanaian descent.
“We took to social media and chat groups to advise Congolese on how to stay safe…We even urged families to remain indoors and instructed parents to keep their children away from large gatherings, and sports activities…particularly in public spaces where tensions might escalate”, said Raoul Pita, a British-Congolese-born citizen and Founder of Protect Project Charity based in Luton.

The urgency of urging their members to stay vigilant mounted as tension collided with the sense of community and solidarity, fueling fear.

However, for many. These incidents have undoubtedly impacted the way Black British communities perceive community cohesion. Some highlighted that the events have highlighted the fragility of the progress made in fostering inclusive and harmonious communities. For others, the fear of violence and the need for increased vigilance have, in some cases, led to a sense of isolation and distrust, particularly towards those who may hold far-right views.

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Many Afro centrist are using this moment as an opportunity to strengthen their ties, not just within their ethnic groups, but also with other communities facing similar challenges. According to Raoul Pita, “Grassroots organisations and community groups are playing a crucial role in addressing the underlying issues of racism and social inequality. Most of us are organising forums, workshops, and discussions aimed at strengthening community cohesion and addressing the issues brought to the forefront by the recent unrest.”