Arc news: January 2010

Keeping safe in 2010 - Arc's latest community awareness programmes

From road safety for young people to distraction burglary awareness for older audiences - here are two new programmes Arc is bringing to the community for the New Year.

 

Crossing Over road safety for secondary schools
by Clifford Oliver, directed by Carole Pluckrose

Research shows that children from poorer communities and those of African and Caribbean origin are at greater risk of road injury than other social and ethnic groups.

Crossing Over is a new theatre piece originally commissioned by Camden Public Safety Team and sponsored by Transport for London. Developed through consultation with young people and parents, the programme focuses on the risks and consequences of distraction and poor judgement when on the street.

Designed for Year 7 and 8 students, the performance and workshop is highly engaging, with immediately recognisable characters with whom young people can identify.

Crossing Over is the story of 15-year-old Sol, who is killed in a road traffic collision. He wakes up to find himself in a confusing and strange in-between world where he must be judged for his actions and given his punishment. During this time, Sol witnesses a range of behaviours on the road that might cause young
people to lose their lives. The piece also highlights the impact on victims’ families, and through these experiences Sol learns about personal responsibility.

To talk about bringing Crossing Over to your area, call Natalie Smith, Education Director at Arc on 020 8594 1095 or email nat@arctheatre.com.

Download full Crossing Over flyer (PDF, 462k)

 

By Appointment distraction burglary awareness for older people
by Clifford Oliver, directed by Carole Pluckrose

By Appointment is a funny and touching new play for older audiences. The piece, which is accompanied by an open discussion forum, raises awareness of the dangers of bogus callers.

Commissioned by Havering Community Safety Partnership, By Appointment tells the story of Iris (played by Anna Karen from BBC’s 'Eastenders' and Olive from 'On the Buses') who has recently lost her husband and is now facing life alone. When faced with a nasty experience at home, she is reticent to tell her daughter Kim, for fear of losing her independence.

The play and discussion will offer advice and help to older people in protecting themselves from distraction burglary. The advice will include clear messages such as:

• never answer the door to callers who have not booked an appointment
• lock doors and windows properly and remove keys from sight
• have extra security in place when out or away from home
• using a Nominated Neighbour to deal with unsolicited calls

By Appointment is designed to move easily into a range of settings where older residents meet. The play and discussion session lasts for 60 minutes.

To book or to find out more, contact Nita Bocking, General Manager at Arc on 020 8594 1095 or email nita@arctheatre.com

Download full By Appointment flyer (PDF, 265k)