The Arts is under more threat now than ever before. Young people living in disadvantaged communities, and/or from underrepresented groups face the greatest barriers to access the Arts and experience the largest impacts to their wellbeing and social mobility. The YV sits between two areas facing significant levels of poverty and deprivation, worsened by the cost-of-living crisis. 56 neighbourhoods in Southwark and 50 neighbourhoods in Lambeth are among the 20% most deprived areas in England.

Taking Part is the beating heart of YV, dedicated to serving the local community. We engage young people from Lambeth and Southwark, including young people from the Global Majority. The Young Associates programme employs four local aspiring theatre-makers to work across the Young Vic’s departments, building practical and transferrable skills. We work with 6 local schools and colleges, to deliver 50 workshops, including a supported internship with Southwark College for neurodiverse young people.