Developing a picture of creative engagement in anti-stigma work

A new report by the Health and Social Care Academy has been published which looks at how creative projects are helping to tackle stigma perpetuation. This report follows on from recommendations made in the ALLIANCE report ‘Reducing Stigma Emphasising Humanity’ which called for right-based and equalities approaches to anti-stigma engagement work. This report is informed by a small scale research project which involved interviews with 11 participants working on projects underpinned by creative engagement and anti-stigma approaches in health.

The report findings highlight how creative engagement can have a positive impact on participants’ wellbeing and can broaden and deepen conversations surrounding complex topics. Projects that are contextualised are the most effective for tackling public stigma. Creative projects can be considered an inclusive practice because it doesn’t rely on a traditional language or literacy barriers compared to other forms of engagement. These projects can provide tools for exploring intersectional experiences. Participants highlighted that creative approaches align with the principles of ‘participation’ and ’empowerment’ which are key elements of a rights-based approach. Funding and commissioning user led arts projects is an effective way to cede power.

There is immense contribution to human flourishing by getting involved in the production of elective artistic work.

The report makes a series of recommendations for funders and commissioners including the need to create equal opportunities for long term projects as well as short term ones. It is recommended that flexibility is given to commissioned organisations in terms of the output produced. Recognition that long term change can take time and that understandings of evidence related to outcomes needs to be broadened. Additionally, creative engagement needs to be embedded in awareness raising activity.

If you change how you speak about things. It changes how you think
about things, which changes ultimately how people approach policies

The report is linked at the bottom of the page. If you have any questions about this research then you can get in touch with the Health and Social Care Academy at the following email Academy@alliance-scotland.org.uk