The Black Thrive Lambeth Employment Project was funded by Impact on Urban Health to improve employment outcomes for Black people with long-term physical and mental health conditions in Lambeth, South London. The project was underpinned by an understanding that the current systems related to employment are problematic, discriminating, and marginalising for Black people with long-term conditions. It sought to tackle this by affecting change in these systems.

The report offers insights into the complexities of financing systemic change, particularly in addressing racial and economic disparities. It is grounded in lived experience and its practical focus makes the insights relevant and actionable for other organisations and funders looking to drive systemic change. By focusing on a project that aims to improve employment outcomes for Black communities in Lambeth, the report highlights the importance of targeted, equity-driven funding strategies that address the unique needs of marginalised groups.

The report explores innovative funding approaches that go beyond traditional grant-making and discusses the need for flexible, long-term funding that allows for adaptation and learning, recognising that systems change is complex and requires sustained investment and encourages funders to think differently about how they support social change initiatives. Lessons include the importance of trust-building and the necessity of long-term thinking in both funding and project implementation, advocating for sustained efforts rather than short-term, project-based approaches.