PR 1754
North Lincolnshire Council will tackle issues of prejudice that exist in this area using the power of Theatre. It has the backing of the private, public and voluntary sector.
The aim is to bring the different communities closer together. It also aims to overcome any prejudices that exist. This could include race, religion, age, and differences between rural and urban communities.
The three-day event takes place on Wednesday 9, Thursday 10 and Friday 11 March at North Lindsey College. It is called the ‘The Challenge for North Lincolnshire’. It is a new and creative programme that brings together local organisations and communities to challenge mind sets. It will embrace social inclusion, equality and diversity in North Lincolnshire.
The main part of the event is a specially scripted play called ‘The Challenge’. Lisa Evans wrote it. Professional actors will perform the play. It has been designed as a training tool. It seeks to challenge stereotypes. Some of the issues raised include race/ethnicity, bullying, disability, sexual orientation, stereotypes, ageism and religion.
The event will also help the council develop a community cohesion strategy. This will explore the tensions that exist in North Lincolnshire and find ways of working better together to resolve them. It will build trust and respect and will help bring communities together with a strong sense of pride in the area.
There will also be an opportunity for participants to work with one of the actors. They will take one of the characters and through discussion, direct continuing action of the scene. They will try to resolve issues using their own experience. This allows everyone to offer their opinion as to how conflicts should be resolved and to listen to solutions from other people.
The North Lincolnshire Strategic Partnership is giving its full backing to project. It will meet half the cost - some £12,000. North Lindsey College will provide the venue. The council has approached many other partners for support.
The event will also be the focus for Citizenship Democracy Week 2005. One event will be devoted to young people.
If you represent a group or organisation who would like to attend, contact Pam Dudson on 01724 296004.
A report discussing the plans will go to Cabinet on Thursday 27 January.
Cllr Allan Holgate, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said:
"We want to develop a strategic approach to community cohesion. One that will enable all communities to get on better. Free from the many prejudices that exist.
"North Lincolnshire’s makeup is very diverse. We have a significant ethnic population and a good mix of young and old. By bringing in the Theatre Company, we hope to explore some of the issues of prejudice that exist within our communities.
"We recognise that equality is paramount in today’s society. That is why just over a year ago we appointed a diversity officer. Her role is to raise awareness of the diversity of our area and help us respond better to different needs. We also form part of the Multi Faith Partnership that works together with the many different faith groups in this area.
"We realise that there is still much work to do. But I am confident that working together with our partners, we can develop a strategy that will see a way forward in bring harmony between our communities."
Notes for Editors This is a joint project and has the support of:
- The North Lincolnshire Strategic Partnership that represents the voluntary, private and public sector
- North Lindsey College
- The Community Safety Partnership
- Children’s Trust
- Highways Alliance
- Police
- Primary Care Trust
Community Cohesion incorporates and goes beyond the concept of race equality and social inclusion. The broad definition is that a cohesive community is one where:
There is a common vision and a sense of belonging for all communities.
The diversity of people’s different backgrounds and circumstances are appreciated and positively valued.
Those from different backgrounds have similar life opportunities.
Strong and positive relationships are being developed between people from different backgrounds in the workplace, in schools and within neighbourhoods.
For further information please contact: Sarah Williamson on 01724 296353, sarah.williamson@northlincs.gov.uk.