Using Performance to Enhance Understanding and Inspire Career Choices in Health and Social Care

Abstract

Background: Choices: Deluxe Edition is an applied theatre performance co-produced as part of the Collaborative Targeted Outreach Programme (CTOP), which aims to reduce barriers to careers in health and social care among under-represented communities. Drawing on the lived experiences of young people across Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes (BLMK), the performance explores the challenges and motivations that shape their perceptions of these career pathways. Developed in partnership with Komola Collective, the project used transformative participatory methods to position young people as co-creators, ensuring authenticity and cultural relevance. Through performance and dialogue, Choices: Deluxe Edition sought to challenge assumptions, foster inclusion, and stimulate new ways of engaging marginalised communities in health and social care education.   Approach: We adopted a qualitative approach, conducting focus groups with young people across BLMK (n = 92). Insights from these discussions informed the script, written by Shahid Iqbal Khan and produced by Komola Collective, which culminated in the live performance Choices: Deluxe Edition at the University of Bedfordshire.   Young actors from underrepresented communities co-designed the script and feedback activities, ensuring authenticity and relevance. The play showcased local emerging talent and was followed by a tour of the University’s simulation suite and discussions that brought together young people, community members, and healthcare stakeholders to explore career pathways in health and social care.   Results: We evaluated the performance of Choices: Deluxe Edition. Participants found the performance relatable, realistic, and accessible, with key messages clearly conveyed. The applied theatre approach created a safe and creative space for sharing lived experiences, exploring challenges, and co-developing solutions. Findings showed that participatory interventions led by underrepresented communities were highly impactful, driven by trust, relatability, and cultural relevance. The results highlight the value of authentic engagement with diverse groups across BLMK. They reaffirm the importance of developing a diverse and inclusive NHS workforce that expands opportunities and improves health and care outcomes.   Implications: Choices: Deluxe Edition demonstrates the potential of creative, participatory methods to engage underrepresented communities in health and social care education. By positioning young people as co-producers of knowledge, the project challenged conventional outreach models and offered an inclusive framework for understanding workforce pathways.   The performance inspired young people to reflect on their career aspirations and consider opportunities in health and social care, education, and employment. These findings highlight the value of arts-based collaboration in shaping equitable recruitment strategies, strengthening community partnerships, and informing policies that address inequalities in access to health and social care careers.