Mind the Gap
We know people are not designed to fit the ‘system’ and many fall through the gaps. We also know there are many service providers, so how is this possible?
Mind the Gap is a new approach to identifying inefficiencies and missed opportunities in integrated systems. It acts as a powerful tool to spark dialogue around how individuals are falling through the gaps in support services.
These events offer a dynamic and inclusive platform that brings together families, community organisations, and professionals to explore the lived experiences of those navigating complex systems in search of help, highlighting where provision and accessibility fall short.
Mind the Gap has proven that the Governements’ 10 year Growth Plan and Marmot around reducing inequalities and unlocking the resulting economic growth requires action by the public, private and VCSE sector.
In a landscape of increasingly scarce funding, improving the way that we work across the whole sector is the key to building sustainable solutions. The insights that we need to identify better ways of working are not available to any one part of the system, but requires the information and intelligence of all involved.
The Mind The Gap approach
We use immersive theatre techniques to explore complex social issues and find solutions collectively together. By enabling attendees to interact with an actor in ‘character’ experiencing multiple challenges, service providers can develop a deeper understanding of the emotional complexities involved.
Previous roadshows have centred on a distinct theme, such as SEND families, veterans, mental health, and farming communities, ensuring a diverse range of voices and challenges are represented. The latest roadshow focused on the experiences of ex-offenders and their journey towards community reintegration. (See Steven’s Story)
Key themes emerging from the roadshows, championed by NCVA through its Health & Wellbeing Network, include:
- The transformative impact of truly person-centred, community-driven approaches.
- The significance of peer support and accessible community spaces in tackling isolation.
- The necessity of cross-sector collaboration to bridge service gaps.
- The urgent need for sustained investment and resources within the VCSE sector to continue this vital work.
What now?
Our last Mind the Gap roadshow looked at ex-offenders and the many barriers they face to reintegrate back into communities. It certainly was a lively, engaging and honest exploration of solutions and now, from our findings, we are looking at a ‘Call to Action’ on 5th March 2026 in Cramlington
We are asking people to come on an equal footing ie no lanyards or branded uniform to ensure a safe space for honest discussion to seek solutions and a different way of working for all sectors.
If you would like to attend, please scan the QR code on the poster attached. Spaces are limited so please get in touch soon and join us on this exciting venture.
We invite participants to attend on equal footing, no lanyards, no branded uniforms, to create a open, non-threatening environment for honest dialogue and new ways of working across all sectors.
If you would like to attend, please scan the QR code on the attached poster. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to register soon and join us on this exciting journey.
What participants said after the last event regarding ex-offenders:
Fantastic event and such an innovative way of looking at the people who are affected rather than generalised topics.
Sara Dickson, Grace
I found the Mind the gap event a highly effective way of getting us to focus on problem solving rather than promoting services. This really highlighted the range of support available but the gap in reach as those that need it don’t know about it!”
Sanjee Ratnatunga, Ideas for Change Consulting
What an extremely powerful, thought provoking event. Well done to all who organised and collaborated.
Phil Longhirst, Chaplain HMP Northumberland
The following interviews were captured at a recent Mind the Gap event in Ashington, sharing reflections and experiences from those involved:
The following videos are a list of potential outcomes that were found during the Mind the Gap roadshows: