New research and a documentary will be used to highlight social issues in Edinburgh, and to show the importance of early intervention
New research is set to make Edinburgh’s marginalised voices heard.
Findings from community empowerment research project, Mind the Craic feature in a new report and documentary film that has been launched.
The project has gathered and will elevate the voices of over 1000 people from disenfranchised groups including people affected by issues like social isolation, mental health issues and discrimination.
It is hoped that findings from the research will raise awareness around social issues in the city and provide a solid base of evidence for the importance of investment in prevention and early intervention.
Virginia Bjertnes, Mind the Craic project worker, said: “Mind the Craic is about giving a voice to people who usually struggle to be heard. It also highlights how communities have been affected by austerity policies, and also how some demographic groups are particularly affected by inequalities such as women, young people, black and minority ethnic and LGBTQ+ people.
“We hope that the findings presented will not only raise awareness and influence change but also provide the tools needed by public, private and voluntary sector organisations to improve prevention and early intervention measures.”
Ella Simpson, Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council (EVOC) chief executive, said: “This research is about listening to people. Feeling lonely and isolated is the biggest problem facing people of all ages not just in Edinburgh but across the western world.
“Having somewhere safe and welcoming to go to is a fundamental human need. Mind the Craic has listened to people and reports what has worked for them. It’s a testament to how valued people have felt throughout this research that they now feel confident and want to share their stories further.
“It is a powerful report which should shape social policy priorities and investment in communities for years to come.”
The Mind the Craic project is an initiative by EVOC in partnership with Volunteer Edinburgh and Edinburgh’s Third Sector Strategy Group (TSSG).
An event examining the themes around the project - where Edinburgh citizens will perform as storytellers - takes place at the Scottish Story Telling Centre on Monday 25 March at 7.30pm. Tickets can be reserved now.
