KIDS IN CONTROL
Kids in Control
(KIC)
Rebrandlng to Rogue Encounter
Report & Financial
Statements
Year andlng31•t March 2024
ROGUE
ART IS ABOUT
EVERYTHING &
FOR EVERYONE!
ENCOUNTERS
Company Address: Beat Carnival Centre, 1147 Boyd Street, Belfast, BT13 2GU
Website: www..kid.sinc.ontrol.c.o.llk
Company Number: N1032412
Charity Number: 10033

ADMINISTRATION
Organisation Chart
Board of Directors
Management Committee
Company
Manager
Arti$tlc
Dlrectoi
Project
Admlnlstrotor
Outreach
Dlrector
Welfare
Offlcer
2xnew
mente6
facilitators
Workshop Support Siaff - Creatlva
As8i8tants
BOARD STRUCTURE
KIC has a voluntary Board of members (m8de up of representatives from the education,
disability, voluntary, and business sectors), which is serviced by the Company Manager.
The Board meets 618 times a year. Its remit is to oversee all company activity, providing
guidance, good governance, safeguarding the vision and ensuring the company
develops as a model of best pr8Ctice. In addition, Board members participate in sub-
committees to support specific areas such as finance and marketing orto drive poLicy
or change in areas such as Safeguarding.
The KIC Committee receives Board and Governance Training through Arts & Business.
Members will continue to receive training opportunities in a variety of areas from
business to SOCi8l media.
We have a strong and diverse Board and overthe next 3 years we plan to increase and
strengthen Board membership and sub-committees further.
BoardMembors2024.'
Mary MuLlan (Directorlchair), Nicholas Moore (Director), Lorraine Frew (Director) David
88LI (Treasurer), Joanne Atkinson (Secretary), Andrew Potter. Nicholas Moore. Robert
Will, Stephen Black

Key skills- Board members:
Financial Management. Business skills. Administration. Secretarial. Social Welfare.
Disability. Arts education. FormaL education. Risk Management. Marketing. Event
Management. Fundraising and Sponsorship development.
Data Analysis. Public Speaking. Problem Solving. Team Leadership. Stakeholder
Management. Data Visualization. Creative Writing. MentaL HeaLth. Innovation &
Entrepreneurship. Inclusion. ICT. Engineering. Councilor. EditoriaL. Writer. Senior
Investigative Off icer.
Mary Mullan- KIC Directorlchalr
Mary is also the seniorwelfare Officerwith KIC. Founding member and Management
Committee member of Brook ChiLdren Together. supporting special needs young people
in the Twinbrook area. Community activist in Twinbrook. Chairfor the Colin Health For
ALI management committee and on the Management Committee for St Lukes Childcare
Committee in Twinbrook.
Mother of learning and physicallydisabled young man.
Lorralne Fr6w- KIC Dlrectorlmanagement Commlttee
Parent representative. Foster mum of 2 young adults with complex needs who benefited
from participation in the project for several years. Lorraine brings 8 wealth of experience
and knowledge of the community, disability, social care sector to the project.
David Bell- KIC TREASURERIManagement Committee
Elected BCC Councilor 2014-19: BDC Transformation Committee; BCC Licensing
Committee, Lyric Theatre Education Advisory Committee, SA&SG Management
Committee, KIC Creative Assistant.
Bsc Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering (Queens) incLuding Math, Further
Math, Math and Computing, Production Management, Innovation and
Entrepreneurship.
PGCE in mathematics with special educational needs and inclusion ICT. Teacher, Head
of Year
J08nne Atklnson- KIC SECRETARY/M8n8gement Committee
Over 24 years, experience in the secretarial field, from typing of documents to diary
management, from organising events to attending and taking part in events and the
usual general off ice duties, telephone, filing, photocopying, petty cash, working with
spreadsheets etc. Qualifications are based around the secretarial field: RSA 1, 2 and 3
in both typing and word processing (some parts with distinction}, RSA11 Business
Administration. GCSE English and Geography Grade C, Higher Level Accounts Grade D,
also RSA Pitman Shorthand. Joanne has recently completed the following training
courses: Person Centered ThinkingTraining, Positive & Productive Meeting Training,
Child Protection, Understanding Learning Disability. Autism Awareness. Child
Protection, Safe Guarding Children and Vulnerable Adults, Emergency First Aid, Moving
& Handling, Being Effective Training. Time Management Training, Lotus Notes Training,
ExceL Training, Word Refresher Training, ITrent Workshop- Introduction to the L&D
Module, Incident Management Policy Workshop, HeaLth & Safety for Off ic8 Based Staff,

Social Media Training, Infection Control, Top Tips When Using IBM Notes, Word, Excel
and
Andrew Potter- Management Commlttee
Marketing, PR and Fundraising Manager Positive Futures,
formerly Senior Marketing Manager BT, and Business Engagement Managerculture
Company 2011 - 2014. Andrew brings a wealth of skills and experience in Marketing, PR,
Fundraising and business.
Stephen Black- M8n8gement Committee
Senior Investigation Off icer (SIO) with the Off ice of the Police Ombudsman for
Northern Ireland (OPONI). Employed by OPONI since October 2000 and currently
Ombudsman's Senior Report Writer, sitting on its Editorial Board. Priorto that, led a
team of investigators dealing with allegations of poLice collusion in Troubles-related
murders. ExcelLent leadership skills including decision-making. problem-soLving.
communication, analysis, and mediation skills. Also a published author and has
launched an editing business.
Nicholas Moore- Management Committee
Nicholas participated in KIC over many years as a young person. Nicholas is developing
as an artistlmusician and his input from personal experience is invaluable. Nicholas
works full time in a supported workplace.
Rob Will- Management Committee
A&BNI Board Bank. Robert was a Business Analyst in the Operate Change Managed
Services team at Pwc, analysing client's business data to better understand the
problems they face now, to identify ways of addressing these problems and improve
into the future. Before joining PWC he completed a PhD in medicine at the University of
Cambridge, researching the evolution of bacterial infectious diseases, and has
championed widening participation and mental health support in higher education
institutions. Nowworkingfor HMRC
Expertise: Data Analysis Public Speaking Problem Solving Team Leadership
Independent Working Stakeholder Management Data Visualisation Creative Writing.
Staff:
Company Manger-Grainne Woods
Artistic Director- David Calvert
Outreach Director- Jade Quin
Administration - Amy Frazer
Trainee Facilitators- BiLli Mills. Holly Hannaway
Welfare Off icer- Linda Laverty, Melissa Seawright
Creative Assistant- Nigel Lockhart
Volunteers- James Morgan, Joseph FitZP8trick, Hannah Black

INCLUSION:
Two KIC Board members have a disability. Two are Carers to adults with disabilities. One
office staff member has a disability. One Creative Team members has a dis8bility. 4
FemaLe & 4 Male Board Members and range in ages from 26 to 75
In setting out our objectives and planning our programme of activitles th8 KIC
Board/trustees have glven careful consideration to the Charity Commission Ni's
guidance of public benefit to ensure that our activities have helped to achieve the
charity's purposes and provide a benefit to the beneficiaries.
Nicholas Moore
Director
Lorraine Frew
Director
PURPOSES & ACTIVITIES
The purposes of the charity are:
To promote the benefit ot the inhabitants of Northern Ireland without distinction of age,
sex, race or political, religious or other opinions by advancing public education
particularly but not exclusively by the provision of training in drama and performance
skills.
HOW WE MEEf PUBLIC BENEFIT
The direct benefits which flow from our purpose include:
The improved welfare of mar8inalized childreng youth and adults through skills
development, developing confidence and self-esteem. social skills, team working,

decision-making skills. empathy. interests and ambition, self-awareness and social
networks.
The advancement of education through the delivery of programmes which compliment
yet are additional to other service providers.
Developing an equal society through highlighting the benefits and achievements of
participants and developing empathy and understanding for marginalized members of
society.
Accessing personal development opportunities to marginalized individuals and
communities. developing the confidence and skill to join mainstream activities.
Reducing isolation of vulnerable members of society through the design of flexible
programmes that meet real need and have lasting benefits.
Enablingthe personal development of participants to enhance their social skills and
employability and developing employment opportunities.
Encouraging enjoyment 8nd achievement and supporting participants to maintain or
improve their mental health, fitness and well-being.
KIC is contributing to the development of social cohesion and a healthy civil society for
all.
KIC bring new energies into communities, energies that activate individual potential and
discoveries in a fun, disciplined, liberated, safe space in which young people can be
authentically themselves and communicate this in a celebratory manner.
WHO ISTHE BENEFIT FOR
KIC'S beneficiaries are:
Children, young people, and adults with disabilities.
Children and young people from designated areas of deprivation for exampLe from
interface areas. isolated andlor marginaLized TSN communities.
In order to enhance service provision in our target areas KIC provides
training and mentoring to arts facilitators. youth and community workers as well as
leadership programmes for olderyouth - deveLoping skills within community settings.

THIS IS EVIDENCED BY:
KIC operates a policy of continual monitoring and evaLuation - this is
critical in developing our services and ensuring a high social return on
investment.
The benefits that come from our work are clearly evidenced through
feedback from our user groups and external assessors.
The benefits are also dispLayed through pubLic performance and feedback
is also gathered from our audiences.
KIC produces a number of case studies each year. These are developed
from 360-degree feedback involving participant. facilitators, guardians,
teachers, social workers, and other professionals involved in the care of
the individuaL.
WHATWE DO:
KIC designs and delivers all its services with the following core vaLues:
Respect for people of all backgrounds and ability.
Integration at the core of programming.
Committed to learner led flexible programming.
Focused on long-term benefits and impact for individualslcommunities.
KIC is availabLe to people who want to use physical theatre to change the community
for the better. We provide high quality and high impact creative learning provision in
some of Northern Ireland's most isolated and marginalised communities that fall under
Ni's policy for Targeting Social Need and young people who are classified under Section
75 of the Nl act.
KIC implements creative programs in partnership with a variety of partners including
community and voluntary groups. youth groups and schools.
Our participants have very diverse needs and require sensitive and high levels of
support. therefore, we work closely with their guardians. carers, social workers, parents.
foster parents, youth Leaders, support workers and community poLice where needed.
ACTIVITIES
Artistic Programme - Full year activities report 2023- 2024
REBRAND LAUNCH
Ensuring our usergroups feel a part of the process
Workshops: 11
Participants: 16
Events: 1 launch event and 1 shortfilm
Audience: 1522

COMMUNITYOUTREACH
Delivering workshops to TSN/Section75 communities in their home base across
Belfast
Workshops". 10
Participants: 157
EXTENDED OUTREACH PAR TNERSHIPS
Dlvls Youth Project, Frank Gillen Centre, Divis
Deprivation Rank- rank 30 out of 890
Workshops: 16
Participants: 30
Events: 1 performance
Audience: 878
Sulcid8 Awareness & Support Group- Heads Up
Mental Health programme for those at risk. marglnallsed youth of all abllltles fmm
across the city
Workshops: 28
Participants: 217
Events: 1 Podcast, 1 short film
Audience: 4847
Upper Springfield Development Trust
Deprlvatlon R8nk- rank 77 out of 890
Workshops: 23
Participants: 37
SCHOOLS INCLUSION PROGRAMME
Ashfleld Girls School
School based workshops for youth from loyallst communltles, east Belfast
Workshops: 2
Participants: 30
DlsablLIty Access Project schools- Glenveagh
Hom8 based creative learnlngpmgramme for disabledyouth
Workshops; 32
Participants: 55
All Saints ColLege- West Belfast Schools Project
Workshop progr8mme tackling social Issues In the local community, students
coming from areas of disadvantage and NewArrlv81s (Immigrants & refugees)
Workshops: 32
Participants". 59
Events: 3 screening and YouTube/SM + Belfast Live
Audience: 2870

IN-HOUSE PROGRAMMES
Core Access Programme- Physical Graff iti
In-House creatlV8 learning programme for ages 12-18 who have 8dditionaUcomplex
support needs. Learning disabilities. physical disabilities. neurodiverse
Workshops: 61
Participants: 55
Events: 2 short film and Special presentation workshop
Audience: 1215
Core Advanced Programme-Adventures In Human Belng (Urban Specles)
In-House crnative learning programme for ages 14-18, mawinalisedyouth
connectlng through our communlty outreach and schools. Inclusion programme,
Includlng NewArrlvals (Immlgrants & Refugees)
Workshops: 15
Participants". 21
All Door8 Open - young adult dlsability
In-Hous8 creatlve learnlng pmgramme for ages 18-25, 8 skllls davelopment
transltlon progr8mm8 foryoung adult wlth addltlonavcomplex support needs
Workshops: 58
Participants: 44
Events: 18hort film- not published- screened for famiLy/friends, 1 display
Audience: 14660
SECTORAL DEVELOPMENT. PROFESSIONAL PARTNERSHIPS, COLLABORATIONS
KIC Peer L8adershlpniolunteer Tralnlng
Developlngyoung leaders Identlfl8d through ourln-house tralnlngprogrammes
Workshops: 40
Participants: 10
Br8ln Injury Matters
Creatlve programmlng for 8dults wlth catastmphlc braln InJurles- h881th &
wellbeing
Workshops: 50
Participants: 32
Events: public performance Bounce and Film
KIC/Lyrlc Theatre All Ablllty Programme
Annual all abllltyprogramme for youth, connectlng those wlth Ilttle to no access to
the arts
Workshops- 18
Participants- 16

Blue Chevy Masterclasses
Filling an identified gap in professional career development opportunities for
d/Deaf, disabled and neurodiverse adults who want to develop pmfessionally.
Workshops: 7
Prep Participants: 10
Audience". 2400
Collaboration with the Lyric Theatre Creative Learning Department
Upskilling the sector
*Blackout- Lyric Theatre Creative Learning Department- cancelled by Lyric
*Theatre School- Lyric Theatre Creative Learning Department
'Lyric Drama Studio- Lyric Theatre Creative Learning Department
Workshops: 6
Participants: 28
Incluslve Theatre Practlce Trainlngfor emergingfacllltators
Providingprofessional development opportunities in inclusive practice. Upskllling
the s8Ctor & p8rt of our succession plannlng to ensure core values are embedded
In newleaders
Applications- 27
Workshops- 20
Participants- 5
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
KIC has been goingthrough a Rebranding process. Funded by Arts & Business through
the Blueprint programme. All Board memberslstaff were involved in the workshops and
development process.
.4 members of staff have received SafeTalk training with certificate
.3 members of staff have received Disability Awareness Training
'KIC has deLivered intensive Inclusive Facilitator Training to 4 emerging facilitators
*4 KIC trainee facilitators have received Disability Awareness Training
'Company Manager attended Outcomes training with Thrive hosted by Arts&Business
*Company Manager has had 6 sessions with A&B Blueprint Mentor Mark Robinson. This
mentoring is ongoing.
*2 KIC staff have received training in Cyber security and KIC has received certificates for
Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials PLUS
*KIC Company Manager received Carbon Literacy Training and received certificate.
*KIC Board completed Governance Training via Volunteer Now on 23110123
*Company Manager and Board member attended A&BNI Cultural Governance
Conference.
'KIC Staff and 1 Board member received LGBTQ+ training
*Company Manager sat on the judging panel for the A&BNI Arts and Business Awards.
'Manager received Digital Marketing Training
*Mana8er received Succession Planning Trainin8
*Company Manger completed BSL introductory course
10

KIC has secured two new emerging faciLitators through its Inclusive Training Practice.
They continue to be mentored in delivering high quality profoundly inclusive
programmes.
TOTALS
Workshops: 416
Participants: 821
Events: 32
Audience: 23,619
Feedback from INCLUSIVE THEATRE PRACTICE:
Upskilling the sector in profoundly inclusive practice- 8 professional development
programme
I was absolutely delighted to be chosen for this unique opportunity to train with Kids in
Control on their Inclusive Theatre Practice intensive course. I was drawn to the training
as KIC are Leaders in terms of theirwork with Disabled and Neurodivergent artists and
represent best practice in terms of their faciLitation work with all ages. As an
experienced facilitator it can be difficultto find training of this calibre to stretch and
enhance skills. The five days working with David were invaluable to me as a practicing
artist and facilitator. David has unparalleled experience in facilitation, theatre making
and working with a range of abilities. He generously shared his wealth of knowLedge.
skills and advice with us. The training has inspired me and renewed goals for my own
creative practice. More training like this would not only improve the quality of theatre
training here in Nl but it would also have a wonderful impact on the Lives of the
participants of aLI ages and abilities who engage in KIC programmes and beyond! As a
freelance facilitator I WILI be infusing my practice with all I have Learned, and this training
WILI have a wider reach than can be measured. Kathy
It was an honour havingthe opportunityto soak in the creative techniques that Kids in
Control provided. The Five days flew by so quick; each day was jam packed with
activities, that l as a drama facilitator could then apply and mould to sessions with other
young people. The structure was concise, filled with multiple layers that had their own
individual effectiveness. Itwas an innovative approach to creation, the brain had to take
a seat for the gut to lead. I had learnt a lot in a short space of time, I feel more confident
and capable to deliver workshops in this layout thanks to the genius duo Dave and Jade.
BilLie
The inclusive facilitation training from Kids in Control was a fantastic experience. Not
only did we have the chance to Learn a variety of new techniques that could be used
with participants of aLI-ages and abilities, but we were given the space to explore our
own creative work as theatre-makers. ALI in all, it was a brilliant experience as a creative
facilitator. Andrew
The KIC inGlu3ivc trainingyiaa an inGrodiblo experionGe. David and Jade were incredibly
attentive and deliberate with their teachings and made sure that we fully understood the
11

work before continuing. The group work was well balanced with individual focus and the
chance to showcase what we'd learnt at the end of the 5 days was invaluable. I will
continue to use the tools taught by David and Jade in my work going forward. Holly
FULL EVALUATION DOCUMENTATTACHED BELOW
Monitoring of IMPACT
KIC used a variety of methods to measure and collect evidence:
Photographic and film evidence to create a visual record of sessions and activities,
including interviews with staff. participants. and parents of participants. The interviews
accurateLy capture comments on the programme which we use for quotes and
feedback for reporting. These records are also used for archive purposes.
Workshop report forms are completed every session by the Welfare Off icer noting staff
observations of changes in the young people week-to-week. This incLudes how well
participants interact with their peers and other staff, how they engage in workshops and
participants, body language when they enter and Leave the workshop sessions, At the
end of the year, these reports give us a fuller insight into the journey participants have
taken - where they may have struggled in the beginning and where they are flourishing
now.
Self-reported questionnaires are completed at key points throughout the year to gather
evidenc8 on how the young people feel in the moment. The questionnaires contain
emojis to engage participants and help them describe how they feel.
KIC uses 360-degree feedback from parents, guardians, teachers, and key social
workers for a fuller understanding of the difference made in young people's lives. Thes8
conversations and quotes from other adults, participants see regularly, informs us of
the changes outside the workshop and how the work we do at KIC trickles into their
school and home lives.
The Artistic Director and Welfare Officer monitor the progress of participants in each
workshop session and, during weekly team meetings will ensure that we keep track of
individuals, progress.
Records of attendance are normally used as quantitative data for evidence of the
consistency and enthusiasm that young people are showing for workshop sessions.
However. from the frequent changes in Covid circumstances and the fear of sickness in
our more vulnerable participants. regular attendance has been down in the past year.
12

RESERVES POLICY adopted 2411122
The Kids in Control Board of Directors have resolved to establish reserves for future
needs.
Kids in Control company is limited byguarantee. and it has no share capital. As a
charitable organisation as well as a limited company Kids in Control must meet the
requirements of expending funds in line with charitable objectives, as well as
maintaining a solvent companythat can meet unforeseen circumstances. To this end
and as part of the planned strategic development planning, Kids in Control has a
reserves policy that outlines the rationale for holding reserve8.
Kids in Controlwill aim to accrue and maintain at least 3 months of operational
overheads and programming costs to allow it to deal with a gap in funding, loss of
funding or other major shocks. ALthough Kids in Control may not be in a position to
maintain this level of free reserves at a particular point in time, it should strive to
achieve a reserve that equates to this level.
At the time of adopting this policy Kids in Control does not have the level of unrestricted
r8S8rv8s identified as required and is planning to implement the reserves policy
throughout the 2023 - 2024 financial year to actively address this situation.
Copy on request
13

KIDS IN CONTROI
PROJECT REPORT
The Talent Fund- HughBonGo Fund
ARTISABOUTEVERYTHINGAND FOR EVERYONE
Image: Participants in AIL Doors Open. backstage. Lyric theatre, Belfast
14

KIC received generous support from The Talent Fund- HughBonGo Fund in DEC 2022
towards two strands of our work:
1) All Doors Open- a new creative learning programme for young adults with
physical and learning disabilities andlor neurodiverse. This programme was
designed in response to need and demand and to fill a gap in provision for youth
reaching aduLthood without access to creative activities that support this critical
transition period for disadvantaged youth.
2) Community Outreach programme- reaching into the heart of communities to
bring new energies and provide access to new creative Learning opportunities for
marginalised youth from areas of need and disadvantage.
The support that KIC received had 8 big impact on the scale, scope and reach of
programmes that KIC was able to deliver in 2023.
The support helped KIC to meet the ongoing chalLenges of the post pandemic
environment that had a severe impact on KIC user groups. In particular the grant
supported KIC to navigate the difficulties in engaging hard to reach young people from
marginalised communities through its Outreach Programme. The grant allowed KIC to
provide high quality creative experiences and build momentum with groups, so they felt
achievement and became secure, with many continuing to participate in KIC projects.
The support was criticaL in developing performance work with groups, allowing us to
deliver our annual Spring Showcase in March 2023 at the Lyric Theatre, BeLfast, with
strong groups performing to two full houses of new audiences that reflected our target
groups- those with little to no access to the arts, with the majority having never been to
a theatre before. These showcase performance pLatforms are vital in highLighting and
celebrating achievement while also promoting high quality inclusive creative
programming- and KIC'S vision thatArtis about everythingand for everyone.
Work8hop Numbers: 71
Participant Numbers: 115
Events;
All Doors Open- St Patricks Day Parade, Belfast
All Doors Open - Lyric Theatre, BeLfast- Performance
All Doors Open -AGM, Redeemer Central, Belfast - Display & Film
Divis Divas Lyric Theatre, Belfast- Performance
Divis Divas Frank Gillen Centre, BeLfast- Performance
ALI Saints Film (Social Media, YouTube>
ALI Saints BeLfast Live Article
Audience Numbers across all project events: across all project events: • Known: 2784
Estimated: 40,000 Belfast St Patricks Day Carnival
Unknown Belfast Live- locaL news online channel, estimate 2000
15

KIC- All Doors Open
Disability rates in Northern IreLand (Nl} are much higherthan in other areas within the
UK. The The Department for Communities Nl states that 1 in 5 people in Nl have a
disability. 2021 Census found that 24¥0 of the Nl population report being limited in their
day-to-day activities either a Little or a lot. This compares to 17% and 22 % respectively
in England and Wales. The pandemic and cost of living crisis has disproportionately
impact those with disabiLities. Nl already had some of the worst outcomes for people
with disabilities compared with other areas of the UK and this has only increased.
Through dellvering hlgh qualltywork wlth all abllltles KIC public presentatlons
reflect the diverslty of society and celebrate difference, developing ompathy and
understanding through theatre which highlights the ability of 'disabL6d' youth and
challenges preconceived Ideas of passive participation and low expectations of
marginalised youth
Images: All Doors Open, on-stage and backstage, Lyric Theatre, Belfast
Project Descrlptlon:
All Doors Open - 8 new creative learning programme was estabLished for youth with
learninglphysical disabilitieslneurodiverse disproportionately impacted by pandemic
conditions. For participants reaching young adulthood without access to activities
supporting the critical transition period from school to independence. The project was
designed in response to nee(J an(J (Jemand and establlshed to fill a gap in sep4iGes for
youth with complex disabilities.
KeyAlms:
l) Reduce Social Isolation & Increased happiness
Supportinglencouraging social engagement with peers increasing emotional well-being
and reducing isolation through feeling part of a team and developing sociaL ne￿OrkS.
16

2) Greater Self-efficacy and skills development
Encouraging enjoyment, motivation and confirming achievement enabling participants
to achieve personal best. raise their expectations and those others may have of them
through public performance.
3) Increased Happiness
Many entering KIC arrive unhappy, anxious, lonely with low self-esteem. Many have had
poor experiences of joining groups. Learning new skills recognized in performance,
ensures confidence. feelings of self-worth and social skills are acquired.
Achievements:
This programme has been very successful in its aims with feedback questionnaires
confirmingthat:
all partlclpants have experlencad reduce isolatlon and all enjoy new
frlendships and being part of their own group with a'supportive and friendly,
KIC team.
everyone found the programme to be fun and social. and lookforward to
workshops as a highlight of their week. They all enjoyed feeling part of a
team.
All reported having developed skills, confidence, greater self-esteem and
increased feeling of independence.
Stress and anxiety levels have been reduced and everyone feels supported
and part of the group duringworkshops.
All partlclpants wanted to continue with the programme.
Through a weekly workshop programme based in Redeemer Central, Belfast, the group
worked togetherto develop skills in teamwork. improvisation, storyteLling and image
making. Together they devised and produced their own performance work for three
public events.
The group trained in carnival skills and led the St Patrick's Day Carnival
Parade through Belfast City Centre co-ordinated by Beat CarnivaL. The
theme was #voicesofbelfast.
They deveLoped new work for 2 public performances on the Lyric Theatre
stage for the KIC Spring Showcase event.
Both these events brought a lot of joy to participants and their families and friends,
while increasing participants confidence and confirming their achievements.
Participants achievements were celebrated by diverse audiences and the group had
standing ovations for their Lyric Theatre performances.
An added benefit was that parents/guardians were gratefuL for a programme that gave
their young people a sense of belonging and a platform to have their voices heard, they
also appreciated free time on a weekLy basis for themseLves andlor other siblings,
17

knowing that their young person was in a happy, positive and safe environment where
they were valued, respected and felt happy.
The parents/guardians were aLso keen to get involved backstage for the Lyric
performances and really enjoyed the excitement and comradery, and getting to connect
with other guardians facing simiLar challenges. This cemented KIC'S relationships with
guardians and developed volunteers to support our work going forward. ALI guardians
came to KIC'S AGM and have signed up as members.
Ima1••: All Doorn Open- Lo4dSng St PAtrlck'• Day P8r8d•. B•lfA•i.
Overall, this was a fantastic project, the only challenge was a period of sickness which
impacted attendance for severaL weeks. All participantslfamilies involved have some
health concerns. so we were very attentive to reducing the spread of any viral infections
which meant we did have several postponed workshops - but the group managed to
make up ground to prepare for the Lyric performances.
Imagos.. All Doors Op•n. Lyric Theatre. Bèlf8st
18

Feedback:
AIL participants have stated that they have developed confidence. skills. friendships,
independence, creativity. enjoy KIC workshops, and that they feel good after a
workshop. All participants stated that KIC is important to them. and they want to
continue.
'1 think it is a critical service. As a parent. I was astounded by the commitment of the
staff, so patient, so friendly and so diligent:
'Mytsvorite thingabout KIC is being with the squad,.
'Sh8 is much more independentandis able to plan and carry outsimple tasks
independentlynow
After workshops I feel more confident:
'Her communication skills are well developed now. She is happy to interact with peers
and staff and share her ideas
'Myfavorite thing8bout KIC 8re the games and performances we do..
'18m 81ways impressed of the w8yIt is so inclusive and everyone* contribution is
vgluad, praised. and appreci8ted:
'KIC is fun, I love the people and I love to perform..
'The KIC program is helping to develop her control over herphysical body and express
herselfthrough movement:
'Has developedgreat8rself-worth and independenc8, confidence levels growing:
'People helped me, and I had fun. I would like to play a bigger role"
'Thls Is p8rt of her Ilfe now, she cannot Ilve wlthout It,
KIC could not have secured and maintained the All Doors Open Project without the
support of The Talent Fund. It has allowed us to establish it as an on-going programme
to meet need and demand for creative services for youth with compLex disabilities.
Being able to deliver public performances has raised the profile of the group and
attracted other funding. we now have good evaluation material. images. and a group
profile making the programme more sustainable going forward.
This programme has been very beneficial to the participants and thelr famllles,
creating new possibilities, new friendship groups, confldence, happiness 8nd hop8
for better futures and a more inclusive society.
Due to the success of this project All Doors Open has now secured a project grant
and is secure until Novomber 2024- a fanta$ti¢ outcome!
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All Doors Open- short film- Black Panther
h)ps://www.facebook.com/kicprojecUposts1919664882939965
DIVIS DIVAS
A KIC Outreach Project
71L
Image: Dlvl8 Dlvas- backstag• Lyrlc Theatre, Belfast
Dlvls Dlvag- Project report
Dlvls Youth Project is located in Frank Gillen Centre in Ardoyne, Belfast. and is ranked
301890 on the Multiple Deprivation Measure and therefore one of the most deprived
SOA'S (Super Output Areas) in Nl (1 being the most deprived). 71890 for Health and
Disability, 91890 for Education and skills development. and 21890 for Crime and
Disorder.
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Participants
The group was made up of 8 girls, aged between 9 and 11 years old who had never
performed in a theatre before, and the majority had never been to a theatre to watch a
performance. They were all residents of the Divis area, which is a marginalised TSN
community in Belfast experiencing high levels of disadvantage and deprivation
including anti-sociaL behaviour, death driving, drug misuse and low expectations of
youth. Most do not have positive role modet.
Project
Kids I n Control facilitated a 14-week dance programme for members of Divis Youth
Project, which ran from Januaryto March 2023 and cumulated with 2 performances in
the Lyric Theatre, Belfast and a further performance in their own community centre.
Through a bespoke, incremental workshop programme. the p8rticipants developed
dance skills and the confidence to devise their own dance piece for performance. The
project gave a plattorm to young people living in one of Nl's communities of multiple
deprivation. It provided them wlth an opportunlty to work with professlonal artlsts
to produce creatlve outcomes over whlch they felt owner8hlp and prlde, and that
developed thelr confldenc8 and ability to connect wlth and particlpate In further
arts actlvltl8s. It W8S 8 very successful proJ8Ct wlth a number of posltlve outcomes.
Achlevements:
Participatory engagement was extremely high for the project. The attendance every
week was exceptional and their enthusiasm in the project was shown through their
involvement in devising their dance performance, coming up with their own ideas for a
theme and then choosing the music.
The participants were given the skills, guidance and space to communlcate thelr Ideas
for the dance piece. They took part in team building and trust exercises and developed
creative physical theatre skills which encouraged self-expression, self-esteem. and the
confidence that comes with being part of an ensemble. This enabled them to
choreograph their own solo dances within the performance, which in turn gave them a
great sense of ownership and pride over their work.
The development of an articulate voice provided the opportunity for the group to
communicate honest and powerful messages to their peers in dance format. The group
choose the music fortheir dance. which was a powerful song about being enough just
as you are. Through dance they expressed/shared with their peers positive messages
about being body confident and being happy in who you are. The group was challenged
in a creative and exciting way. being supported through skills development to devise and
choreograph their own work and put their own stamp onto their work guided by a
professional artist.
This project deveLoped new audiences from the Divis community and surrounding
area8. Families and friends of participants attended the Lyric Theatre to watch the
performance, some coming twice as they enjoyed it so much. Many of this audience
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had never been to the theatre before or interacted with an Arts project. The engagement
of new peer audiences also created an awareness of Arts projects within Divis Youth
Project and an eagerness to get involved in future programmes. The community was so
proud and excited that they were able to perform on the Lyric stage aLongside other
diverse groups that they put on a coach to bring a Divis audience.
At the Lyric Theatre, the group were performing alongside other groups that Kids in
Control had been working with. including an all-abiLity group made up of young people
with both physical and learning disabilities. The interaction and sharing of the stage with
these young people was a positive experience which brought out lovely qualities in the
girls, increasingtheir personal development and highlighting inclusivity in the Arts. They
all enjoyed the social interactions and excitementthat comes from technical rehearsals
and sharing dressing rooms behind the stage. This experience was very new, exciting
and connected all involved to the theatre and creative projects.
KIDS IN CONTROL
Image: Divi8 Div88- performing Lyric The8tro, B¢lfast
Imag8: Divis Divas-workshop and touring Lyric Theatre. Belfast
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Feedback.
Feedback highlighted that they all enjoyed the Lyric Showcase, would all like to
participate in another KIC project. that the majority had never been to 8 theatre before,
and had never seen disabiLity performance work before.
The words most highlighted in the questiorinaires the group completed after the project
were: exciting. fun, interesting.
The group enjoyed performing at the Lyric so much that they performed their dance
piece again the following week at the Frank Gillen Centre's Celebration Day event to
another packed audience made up of residents from the Divis community.
'1 loved it- I'd do it agaln"
"Amazing actors, amazing show, absolutely fantastic, loved every bit of it, next one
soon please
'1 love this, all look so happy doing what they lov8"
'My favourite thing was atl of it because they all worked together"
'My favourite blt was all of it"
Image: Divis Divas- performing Lyric Theatre, Belfast
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ALL SAINTS College- West Belfast
ALI Saints College is a school based on Glen Road. West Belfast. Serving Students from
surrounding nationalist communities, many of which fall within the top 100 areas (out of
890 areas) of deprivation in Nl.
Each year KIC works with Year 8&9 students to develop their confidence. skilLs. focus
and find creative ways to tackling social issues experienced in the area. The young
people chose the topic and through creative workshops they explore and discuss the
impact on their community and seek to use positive peer influence to create change.
Together they develop and devise a storyline to influence change. They then script,
storyboard, perform and shoot a short film to be shared on social media. Pr8VIOUS
issues tackled have included bullying, drug misuse, mental health (highest rate of
suicide in th8 UK) and vandalism.
Thanks to this grant Yr. 819 students were able to produce a short film with KIC to raise
awareness of the dangers of vaplng. A growing and urgent issues in their communities,
impacting on them and their peers, particularly the recent issue of'spice. being used in
Vapes byyouth.
Be Smart, Don't Start
A short fllm to ralso awar•noss. slgnpost support. and promote good health and
wellbeing
'Be Sm8rt, Don't St8rt' focuses on the issue of v8ping and how the drug Spice is being
reportedly used. Participants developed their skills and confidence over an incremental
learning progr8mme. They devised the content themselves and made creative decisions
8bout the film.
ALI S8ints College: FILM Shoot
Be Smart, Don'tStart-YouTubo:
https:Ilyoutu.be/zFYedZmaGss?si=b6bgJJDwkW68DGnH Kids in Control
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'Our YR9 pupils created this short film with KIC about the dangers of vaping,
currently a major concern for our pupils, parents and communities. Thank you as
always to Jade Quinn for the work she continues to do with our pupils. We are
extremely proud of each and every single one of our pupils who have been a part of
this film. They worked tirelessly over several months to script, record and film.
Please watch & share widely" David Bell. Head of Year, All Salnts College
Jade Qulnn, KIC Artlstlc Dlrectortold Belfast Live: "It was a pleasure working with the
pupils and I'm very proud of them for raising awareness on such an important issue.
It's scary how accessible and highly addictive vaping is, and we hope that young
people will listen to the message about not starting."
Ba Smart, Don't Start - Balfast Llv8 On-Llna Artlclè:
https:/lwww.belfastlive.co.uklnewslbelfast-newslbelfast-kids-invovled-awareness-
campaign-
27893096?utm_source=linkCopy&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=sharebar
"Well dona kld8, hopefully It make8 more young p8ople stop and thlnk before they
start• you are all amazlng"
"Very good and extremely Informatlve....well done to all"
"Well done everyone, hope It helps to get the message across"
1.1
Image8: All Saints Coiioge- Workshopg
Addltlonal Outreach Workshops engaglng and recrultlng naw young paopla from
marglnallzed areas to KIC in-house projects:
John Paul 11 Youth Centie, Ardoyne. North Belfast- rank 91890 area of
multipl8 deprivation. 1 being most deprived.
Ashfield Girls School, East Belfast- serving marginalized communltles In
loyal18t area8. After school drama project
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3 participants from Ashfield became peervolunteers on KIC all ability projects
supporting their disabled peers in workshops and in performance.
Images: Ashfleld Glrls School- wofkshops
What'8 happenlng next!
All Doors Open has received new funding due the success of this programme,
and is now secure until November 2024
Divis Youth Project: 3 Divis participants are now developing as peer leaders for a
next generation of Divis Divas who 8re on target to Perform in the Lyric Spring
Showcase Apri124
Ashfield Girls School: 2 participants continue to volunteer on KIC disability
projects
A new group of Year 8 All Saints students have commenced a next creative
programme focused on a social issue of concern and will shoot a short film in
the run up to Easter 2024
Urban Species- a brand new KIC Core programme has formed due to the
interest and enthusiasm of young people engaged across the range of outreach
programmes delivered due to HughBonGo support. A diverse group of
margin8Lized youth from loyalist and nationalist communities, and of all abiLities.
This is an exciting deveLopment.
KIC feels we are very close to getting back the pre-pandemic rhythm as welL as
having expanded our community connections.
KIC now has a youth Disability Ambassador from our All Doors Open project and
this will have a very positive impact on KIC activities and profile going forward.
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