In June 2004 the Government Office for Yorkshire and The Humber (GOYH) commissioned a study to develop a range of options for supporting the development needs of Black and Minority Ethnic voluntary and community organisations in the region.

The options were presented at a seminar in November 2004 and the BME Regional Panel option was selected as the most positive way to develop partnerships between different groups.

In summer 2005 GOYH called for applications for membership, and the BME Panel formally started work in December 2005. The Regional Forum won the contract to support the Panel through a dedicated BME Development Officer.