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Impact | NEET

Light Graffiti

Light Graffiti is a project targeted at young people who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), providing an opportunity for participants to express themselves by creating visually engaging art work and learn about the science behind unique light technology.

QUICK LOOK PROFILE OF THE PROJECT

-          NAME: Light Graffiti

-          CLIENT: Hounslow Pathways Organisation, Leaving Care Team

-          TARGET GROUP: Young People, NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) who are Care Leavers

-          WHERE: Watermans

-          WHEN: November 2010

-          NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 7

-          AGE RANGE: 15 - 21 years old

PROJECT DETAIL

The young people involved in this project had been in care or were unaccompanied minors - all having a range of complex issues i.e. dealing with the neglect, physical,  emotional or sexual abuse, involvement with drugs, alcoholism, trafficking, criminal activity, mental health issues, being NEET or young parents. All were striving to overcome what led them into care, cope with living in semi-independent accommodation and make their return to education or employment.

Light Graffiti offered the opportunity for these individuals to make light drawings and animations using digital photography. As an enjoyable, creative activity with a scientific background the participants were able to express themselves, learn how to use the digital photography equipment and discover the science behind the light drawings.

The participants work was showcased at the British Film Institute at Southbank where a large celebratory event with their family and friends opened the exhibition. The exhibition tour then came to Watermans gallery on the 5^th April till 2^nd May 2011.

INTENDED OUTCOMES

Build motivation to re-engage with education or training through provision of new learning experiences

'The Young People very much enjoyed the course which was completely different from anything they had experienced before. Learning about light, photography, slow exposures etc.' Karena Brown, Education Officer, PATHWAYS, Hounslow Leaving Care team.

"My favourite bit was doing the light tags of the handstands" Participant

To reduce the isolation of individuals through the development of new social relationships with similar young people

This opportunity was offered to a mixed group of young care leavers, the youth offending team and other semi- independent care providers which meant that the group got the chance to meet new peers and build friendships.

Two members of the group were young parents and were able to bring their children to the sessions:

"The best bit was that my son was in it!" Participant

Increased level of trust and social integration

The relaxed workshop environment at Watermans and the artists' flexible approach was instrumental in making participants feel relaxed and secure, which allowed them to fully engage in the activities:

"The Tutors were very easy going and flexible. [They] had a good attitude [and all] our young people continued to return the course which is a great sign… that they felt comfortable, secure, unthreatened and interested." Karena Brown, Education Officer, PATHWAYS, Hounslow Leaving Care team.

This project took place at Watermans venue in Brentford and culminated in a launch at the BFI. This provided opportunities for the young people to visit mainstream community buildings.

PROJECT IMPACT

• Three of the participants involved in Light Graffiti were subsequently enrolled on the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award and a Level 1 Customer Services course.
• A participant from the Pathways organisation had returned to Watermans to work on this project. He is now following a career in media and creative industries.
• One young person was given the opportunity to work with photographers and scientists on another project.
• The assessment of the Pathways team showed that for these particular individuals to return regularly through their own motivation was a positive sign of the project's suitability for the group.
• 71% of the group also attended the opening of the exhibition at the BFI.

'All the young people who attended wish to do more projects with Watermans.' Karena Brown, Education Officer, PATHWAYS, Hounslow Leaving Care team.