17.08.2022

Access to the Arts in the UK is a Social Justice Issue: Announcing Spotlight and Queen Mary University London research collaboration on Creative Youth Work.

Research shows that young people who participate in the arts are more resilient, healthier, do better in school, are more likely to vote, to go to university, to get a job and to keep it.

Spotlight and Queen Mary University London, with the support of Arts Council England are undertaking a 6-month research project: Creative Youth Work: Increasing inclusivity and relevance for young people accessing cultural provision.

The research will seek to support youth provisions to better engage young people currently underrepresented in the arts, with creative activity.

Our Research Team

As part of the project, Spotlight has appointed Dr. Caleb Lee to lead the research with support from Queen Mary University of London. In addition, Spotlight has appointed five young professionals from across London to take on paid roles as Creative Youth Work Advocates. The Creative Youth Work Advocates will simultaneously support the research and challenge the researcher to ensure youth perspectives and experience informs all aspect of the project.

A project board comprising of delegates from Queen Mary University, The Roundhouse, Rich Mix, The Albany and The Yard Theatre are supporting the development of the research.

Who are Spotlight?

Spotlight is a free creative youth space based in Langdon Park in Tower Hamlets. Working in one of the most deprived areas in the country, their creative programme strives to create access for young people aged 11-19 to engage with cutting-edge creative practice, equipment, ideas, partners and artists. Their tiered programmes and support services assist young people wherever they are on their journey: from their first creative experience through to those looking to professionalise or go into higher creative education.

Spotlight’s programme spans Music, Media, Theatre and Dance, Visual Art and Fashion. Empowering young people and platforming youth voice is the golden thread that connects it all together.

If you have any questions about the project please get in touch with poppy@wearespotlight.com (Poppy Green, Spotlight Creative Programme Team Leader)

See Spotlight’s latest youth work in Tower Hamlets on social media @weare_spotlight