With funding from HLF, Lewisham charity Entelechy Arts helped young people with complex disabilities explore the history of one of the oldest surviving street markets in Deptford.
Entelechy Arts’ partner in the project, Lewisham Local History and Archives Centre, helped 10 young people access and research the borough’s archives. They used photos, sound and video clips to produce a multimedia installation that told the stories of people who have worked in or visited the market over the years.
Entelechy Arts have successfully developed techniques for consulting people with complex disabilities, including young people who are unable to use verbal communication. With the help of video technology and speech therapists, the young participants were asked what they wanted the project to focus on and how it should be adapted to their needs.
By giving young people with disabilities and non-disabled young people the chance to work together, the project helped social inclusion in Lewisham.