How play teaches good relationships
Jo Stephenson
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Performance and interactive workshops help young people explore relationships and avoid domestic violence.
Project
Unique Voice Community Interest Company
Purpose
To teach young people about healthy relationships so they can avoid domestic abuse
Funding
From Bristol City Council's extended services budget - an average of £7,000 for each of Bristol's three localities
Background
The Unique Voice Community Interest Company was founded by three performing arts graduates to tackle issues relevant to young people through drama, including domestic abuse. "Through talking to women who had experienced domestic abuse, we learned more about the impact, then worked backwards to look at how it gets to that stage," says director Krystal Keeley. They also spoke to teenagers affected by abuse and worked with organisations including the NSPCC and University of Bristol to gather information.
Action
The result was Me+You=4eva, a performance exploring issues and complications that can occur in young people's relationships, followed by an interactive workshop. The project – aimed at Years 5 and 6 in primary schools, and Years 7 and 8 in secondaries – went to more than 40 schools across Bristol in 2011/12.
During the workshop, young people share their thoughts on the play, then take part in role play and discussion. "Sometimes you get children who instantly disclose something happening at home and it becomes a child protection issue," says Keeley. "Young people have referred to the play in court and during police investigations. Ultimately, the aim is to raise awareness of healthy relationships."
When the production went to the East locality of Bristol, which has a significant Somali population, it was adapted to make it more relevant. The company is now talking to NHS commissioners about taking it to more young people. The team also hopes to produce the play in other parts of the country.
Outcome
Analysis of questionnaires completed by the first 3,000 pupils to see the play found it had helped shape their attitudes. When asked about the main thing they had learned, 56 per cent of secondary pupils said "to be yourself when in a relationship", 28 per cent said "don't let your boyfriend/girlfriend control you or your life" and 16 per cent said "to talk about things if there is a problem". The project also gathered feedback from school staff, who ranked effectiveness on a one to five scale. Results from the East locality found all 30 primary and secondary staff who completed forms rated the scheme four or five out of five for increasing young people's knowledge of relationships at an appropriate level for their age and beliefs. Ninety-seven per cent gave it the top score for informing young people how to seek help if someone they knew was in a negative relationship.