National Youth Theatre launches Assemble – a new programme to address isolation in young disabled people
In an exciting and transformative initiative, the National Youth Theatre (NYT) has unveiled Assemble, a groundbreaking programme designed to combat isolation among young disabled individuals in non-mainstream schools specializing in moderate or severe learning support needs. Supported by seed funding from the National Lottery Community Fund’s Bringing People Together programme, Assemble aims to create connections, provide opportunities, and foster inclusion in the arts for these young talents.
This ambitious project will initially launch in London, Manchester, and South Wales, in partnership with National Youth Arts Wales, a charity dedicated to young performers and creatives aged 11-25. ‘Assemble’ also leverages a key partnership with the Centre for Equity and Inclusion at London Metropolitan University, which will evaluate the programme’s influence on social policy change.
A standout feature of Assemble is the collaboration with Gig Buddies, where young volunteers will be paired with neurodivergent participants to attend various cultural events, including concerts and theatre productions, while receiving relevant training.
Paul Roseby OBE, CEO and Artistic Director of National Youth Theatre, expressed the importance of Assemble in the context of their national inclusion program, stating, “Assemble is an important next step in our growing national inclusion programme and efforts to fix the broken pipeline that isn’t currently serving young disabled talent. Assemble will bring people together, tackle isolation and empower young voices to thrive. We’re grateful to our partners at National Youth Arts Wales and The National Lottery Community Fund for their support.”
Evan Dawson, Chief Executive of National Youth Arts Wales, emphasized the issue of isolation among young disabled individuals in Wales, noting that theatre and arts projects can inspire, support, and connect young people from diverse backgrounds. He expressed excitement about the collaborative efforts with NYT on “Assemble” and its potential to leave a lasting legacy across Wales.
Melissa Eaglesfield, Deputy Director of UK Portfolio at The National Lottery Community Fund, underlined the impact of this funding in creating safe spaces where disabled and non-disabled communities can come together creatively. She also highlighted the fund’s broader missions, including supporting communities, environmental sustainability, empowering children and young people, and promoting healthier living.
Assemble will not only focus on providing immediate opportunities but also on long-term benefits for participants. It aims to boost confidence and interest in the arts through specialized workshops and training, building upon NYT’s existing programs that enhance employability and creative skills such as communication and cooperation. The programme will be facilitated by trained volunteers from the local community who will champion inclusive practices.
Participants in Assemble will have access to additional opportunities after the programme, including progression into National Youth Theatre membership, access to the arts, and other cultural community organizations in their local areas.
To ensure the program’s effectiveness and sustainability, each area where Assemble is implemented will have a dedicated steering group. Comprising D/deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent young people, local community organisation, cultural venues, and local authorities, these groups will prioritise participants’ interests, oversee best practices, and drive change at the local policy level to enrich cultural engagement in participants’ lives.
Assemble is set to launch in Autumn 2023, marking a significant step forward in empowering young disabled talent and fostering inclusion within the arts.
For more information about Assemble and National Youth Theatre, please visit https://www.nyt.org.uk.
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