Collaborate & Innovate – I Need to Belong

We are really pleased that the research findings from our Collaborate & Innovate project are featured in a new evidence review, ‘I Need to Belong’ by the Midlands Arts Partnership on the benefits of arts and cultural engagement for Children in Care and care experienced young people. Collaborate & Innovate is an action research and training programme run with our friends at The Mighty Creatives with cultural sector partners and virtual schools in the Midlands supported by Arts Council England.

The key findings shows that:
“Arts and cultural engagement for children and young people improves confidence, self-belief, and mental health. It creates significant boosts in motivation for school and self esteem, as observed by Carers.

The importance of the potential role of Carers needs to be recognised not only for their support (eg transport provision), but also the impact on their understanding of identity formation of young people beyond heritage/gender. Public outcomes and recognition such as exhibitions or performances are identified as a critical part of the value creation.”

We also comment on the conditions and practices that make for really impactful work with children in care.

If you’d like to know more about the programme please do get in touch with us.