We all recognise the need to reach new audiences in science communication. DISC (delivering inclusion in science communication) was a project that provided opportunities for ethnic minority groups and the science communication community to work together to enable greater participation in science.

DISC created sustainable partnerships between ethnic minority groups and the science communication community, and was a national initiative of the African-Caribbean Network for Science & Technology and the British Science Association.

An effective national framework was developed to facilitate empowering networks and sustainable partnerships between ethnic minorities and the science communication community, by engaging both groups in consultation and dialogue, in two stages:

Year Two
In September 2005 representatives of ethnic minority groups and science communication groups involved in year one were brought together to network, share ideas and challenges, and develop partnerships that will enable the groups to organise innovative initiatives. The project provided resources on ‘good practice’ and a database of groups interested in science communication. Find out more about the residential training programme.

Web resources are now available that report on the representations of black and minority ethnic groups in science, as well as a guide to working with black and minority ethnic communities on science communication activities.

Year One
In 2004 DISC organised separate consultation events for ethnic minorities and science communicators to assess the needs, interests and barriers that each face when involving ethnic minorities in science communication activities.  Consultation events were held in Manchester, Birmingham, London, Sunderland and Exeter.  Reports about these events are also available.

DISC is funded by Copus and NESTA.