The Young Vic sits at the intersection of two densely populated boroughs experiencing extraordinary levels of deprivation. In Lambeth, 1 in 4 live in poverty. In Southwark, over a third live in areas with the highest levels of deprivation in England. Research shows marginalised communities can benefit most from engagement with the arts – improving health, combatting isolation and offering pathways into work - but face the greatest practical and systemic barriers to accessing creative activities.

Through targeted programmes onstage and in communities, we will reach those who need support most in our boroughs. Three strands of activity (Learning, Participation, Neighbourhood Theatre) promote sustained engagement and ongoing mental/physical health benefits. We will undertake extensive outreach work to engage young people excluded due to race, disability or socio-economic circumstances and empower participants to create, learn, and grow through free programmes and access to the Young Vic.