Mind the Gap!
We know people are not always designed to fit the ‘systems’ and many fall through the gaps.
We also know that the VCSE sector has many diverse and specialised provision and is usually the glue that holds things together but often struggles with capacity and resources. We need a new way of working to become a working whole system for each person right across all the sectors.
We believe that our new innovative approach to using the arts in VCSE meetings to address inequalities will have people talking!
The approach employs immersive theatre techniques to explore complex social issues, offering an engaging alternative to traditional presentations.
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, identify practical obstacles to accessing support, recognise gaps between various services, and appreciate why seemingly straightforward solutions may prove ineffective in real-world situations.
Together we can collectively identify how we can support.
We are holding a series of roadshows around the County and work with a different ‘character’ at each event so you can attend one or all as they will all be different depending on the gaps in that area. We believe these roadshows should be engaging and interactive, offering opportunities for people to explore new ideas in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Each roadshow event will be captured on film by interviewing the ‘character’ in role and we will vox pop around the room capturing who can support the scenario and how.
The aim is to provide a library of different scenarios, showcasing everyone that can support and be used as training/CPD for the statutory sector demonstrating the value of the VCSE sector and the collective approach.
The update and previous short scenario video will be aired on-line after each event. We will develop a digital platform for easy access to the videos and ensure they are circulated through our various networks.
Representative guests from the ICB, NHS and local government will be invited to help create a true cross-sector approach to person-centred support. We have already had definite requests from key stakeholders in these cohorts to keep them in the loop and that they would distribute through their networks too.

If you would like to join us for our launch, sign up to the Mind the Gap H&WB Roadshow on Tuesday 18th March, 10am – 11am, on-line and hear all the exciting plans, please simply sign up by clicking on the poster’s QR code or click here. This is not a closed network, so please do feel free to invite others you feel would benefit.
If you have any queries, contact Lyn Horton at lyn.horton@northumberlandcva.org.uk