Home - ACCANE

Connecting Communities Together

Together we can do more!

ACCANE (African Caribbean Community Association North East) is the premier Black-led community hub in Sunderland, dedicated to everyone of African and Caribbean heritage. Whether you are a newcomer navigating the North East or a long-time resident, we provide a “home away from home” rooted in culture, art, and heritage.

Pull up to connect, share stories, tackle what matters to us as a community, and just vibe together.

We laugh, we talk, we eat good food, we sing, we dance, all while lifting each other up for stronger bodies, clearer minds, and real unity.

From our buzzing lounge, café, restaurant & bar to weekly events, practical support, and big cultural celebrations, we’re building a space where you feel seen, supported, and full of joy.

New in town? Long-time local? Bring your crew or come solo. There’s always room for you. Let’s grow, celebrate, and make more memories together.

You’re family here.

Welcome home!

Building Heritage, Building Futures.

Learn more about who we are, the activities we offer, and the funding that supports our mission to empower and uplift the African heritage community.

Slide 1

Who we are

We provide support and relief for Black African and Caribbean (BAC) people and their dependents residing in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, and across the UK. Our mission focuses on:

-Advancing education and skills development for
the BAC community.
-Preserving and promoting the physical and mental
health of people of African and Caribbean heritage.
-Raising awareness of African and Caribbean culture
through storytelling, film, music, fashion, dance,
and visual arts to foster cultural understanding.

Membership is open to individuals of Africa heritage and those passionate about advancing race equality.

Slide 2

What we do

We address the socio-economic exclusion of the BAC community by organizing events and offering advocacy support.

Our services benefit:

-Young people (17–30) not in employment, education, or training (NEET).
-Individuals over 50 who are unemployed.
-Unemployed single parents.
-Refugees and asylum seekers.

Since the pandemic, we’ve provided essential deliveries to vulnerable Black individuals and offered spaces for community engagement, advice, and support.

Slide 3

Funding

Our work is supported by Sunderland City Council, Gentoo, the Cultural Spring, Sunderland Culture, and the African Health Policy Network.

With a £40,000 grant from the People’s Health Trust, we provide services to help:
-Unemployed or underemployed individuals.
Those on low income, lacking skills or confidence, or facing social isolation, homelessness, or mental health challenges.

Our projects, including Black History Month and the Nelson Mandela Centenary, foster cultural exchange, promote integration, and address systemic racism.

Empowering African Heritage

Connecting Cultures: ACCANE’s Impact on Local Life

In today’s world, fostering understanding and appreciation across diverse cultures is more crucial than ever. ACCANE (African and Caribbean Community Association of North East) has become a beacon of hope and connection in Sunderland and its surrounding areas by celebrating…

Learn more

Why Physical Health Matters in Community Building

Physical health is a cornerstone of any thriving community. Beyond individual well-being, a focus on physical fitness fosters connection, resilience, and shared purpose, strengthening the bonds that hold communities together. At ACCANE, we recognize the vital role of physical health…

Learn more

The Role of Community Spaces in Modern Society

Community spaces have always been the heartbeat of societies, providing places for people to gather, share ideas, and build meaningful connections. In today’s fast-paced, digital-driven world, these spaces are more vital than ever. “In the hustle of modern life, community…

Learn more