Case studies - consultancy services
Project: Face Front Inclusive Theatre
Area: Enfield
Funding: £9,534 (2004-05) and £9,834 in (2005-06)
Funding body: Living Learning Grant
Face Front Theatre was set up by both disabled and nondisabled artists to create opportunities for disabled people to be included in the arts. The project aimed to give a group of adults the opportunity to take part in an innovative drama and communication skills project. The project began in July 2005, and was funded by a Living Learning grant. A total of 15 people were recruited over the five month duration of the project.
At the sessions, the beneficiaries covered drama, poetry, movement, speaking in public, creating ideas, team work skills and many other subjects. The beneficiaries were supported throughout the course on a one to one basis, with a weekly phone call to confirm their attendance, and to address any issues they may like to discuss. There were a total of 15 beneficiaries – eight women and seven men. Face Front’s link organisation for this project was Southgate College, and as part of the course, beneficiaries were invited to take a tour of the college to find out about possible courses they could take, and an initial assessment of equipment.
Following the project, three beneficiaries signed up for part-time college courses, and a further five have expressed an interest in attending college courses in the future. The project has also strengthened the relationship between Face Front and Southgate College
During the second phase of the project, beneficiaries continued to build on their work culminating in a final performance piece, which sought to highlight the barriers which people with learning difficulties face to employment and training. This was performed at a number of venues in north and east London, including Southgate College. All the beneficiaries have gained confidence and new skills as a result of taking part in the project.