'Selfies' Evaluation
Researcher
Partner organisation
University of Sunderland
Project date
2014-2016
Using arts-based methods to work with LGBTQ young people to address healthy sexual relationships
Dr Eleanor Formby (Sheffield Hallam University) and Professor Catherine Donovan (University of Sunderland) worked in collaboration to evaluate the Selfies project, which was run by Projects Galore, a community interest company based in Newcastle.
Selfies was a two year arts-based project that worked with lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer (LGBTQ) young people in the North East to celebrate strong peer relationships, and help them recognise and resist domestic violence, abuse and sexual exploitation.
The evaluation activities included 'pre-Selfies' surveys and focus groups, interviews with Selfies workers and associated staff, and 'post-Selfies' surveys and interviews.
The evaluation concluded that should Selfies or similar work be continued, it would be fulfilling an identified need, and able to offer variety in both scope and delivery – according to the needs of the young people recruited. The Selfies project makes the case for LGBTQ youth work within which young people are offered different ways of thinking about their potential for ‘safe’ and happy sex and relationships.
For the full set of conclusions, and detailed findings on the perspectives of the young people and practitioners involved, go to the evaluation final report.
Eleanor Formby has a new book out: Exploring LGBT Spaces and Communities: Contrasting Identities, Belonging and Wellbeing (Routledge)
Funder
Projects Galore