Case Study: Removing Barriers for Older People in the Arts

Introduction

This project builds on our previous Arts & Health work, responding to clear evidence that older people in Newport face significant barriers to arts engagement. Through a combination of delivery at The Cab and outreach locations, we created accessible opportunities for people aged 55+ to take part in drama, movement and arts activities. The programme aimed to improve wellbeing, confidence and social connection, while reintroducing creativity into the lives of participants who had often faced barriers, resulting in exclusion from cultural opportunities. By working in familiar community settings alongside our venue, we reduced both physical and psychological barriers and created a consistent, welcoming pathway into creative participation.

The Challenge

Our work identified that social isolation is closely linked to a wider range of health challenges for older people. Participants reported loneliness, bereavement and reduced confidence, often worsened by Covid. Many also experienced declining mobility, reduced energy, memory loss and cognitive changes. A significant proportion had limited education, and some had low literacy skills, due to post-war working-class backgrounds, early school leaving or life circumstances. These barriers created a cycle of isolation and low self-worth. The project was developed to address these interconnected needs through accessible, creative activity that supports both mental, social and physical wellbeing.

The Approach

We delivered a flexible, inclusive programme of weekly and outreach-based creative sessions over 12 months. This included three weekly drama/performance/movement groups (The Cab, Westgate Court and Stelvio), monthly arts and crafts sessions at The Cab and Nightingale Court, and regular coffee mornings and social gatherings supported informal connection, sharing and peer support. Sessions were designed to be accessible to participants with varying mobility, health conditions and confidence levels, allowing individuals to engage at their own pace. Delivery combined structured creative practice with a social prescribing approach, supporting both referred and self-referring participants. The programme prioritised consistency, relationship-building and participant-led development. Resources were maximised through multi-use sessions, outreach delivery and strong staff and volunteer support, ensuring a high-quality experience within a modest community budget.

The Impact

Evaluation combined baseline data, a 6-month questionnaire and qualitative consultation. Participants reported increased confidence, improved wellbeing and reduced isolation. One participant reflected, “Joining Reality Theatre opened up a new circle of friends.” Confidence and identity were significantly strengthened, with participants describing a renewed sense of purpose: “I felt useless and obsolete… [this] gave me a new lease of life.” Sessions supported cognitive engagement and creativity, with participants rediscovering skills and describing activities as “getting the brain working.” Despite health challenges, participants felt able to engage through a flexible, supportive approach. Social outcomes were strong, with many describing sessions as the highlight of their week and emphasising belonging: “Nobody judges us… everybody is accepted.” Performance was a key driver of impact, with 86% reporting increased confidence after showcases and 71% reporting improved confidence in wider life. 100% felt included and part of a team. The project also addressed long-standing inequality, offering access to the arts for those who had previously been excluded: “It’s never too late.”

Lessons Learned

We learned that accessibility must be social and psychological as well as physical. Delivering in familiar settings increases engagement, while consistency builds trust. Creative activity can support complex health needs when delivered flexibly. Participant voice is essential in shaping provision, and performance opportunities significantly increase confidence, motivation and sustained engagement.

The Legacy

The project has established a sustainable, community-led model for engaging older people in the arts. We have strengthened referral pathways, built long-term partnerships and created groups that will continue beyond the funding period. Participants have developed confidence, skills and social networks that extend into everyday life. The project challenges assumptions about ageing and creativity, demonstrating that older, working-class communities are not just audiences, but active cultural contributors with stories to share.

Website and Social Media Links

https://realitytheatre.org/our-impact/ https://realitytheatre.org/media/

Contact Details

Juls Benson therealitytheatrecompany@gmail.com

Tags: Community theatre, older people, loneliness and isolation, wellbeing, intergenerational, working class

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