Outside Edge Theatre Company
Outside Edge Theatre Company (OETC) is the UK’s only theatre and participatory arts charity focused on addiction. We use innovative theatre to inspire change and help those affected by addiction. Since 1999, we’ve delivered thousands of arts-based interventions for vulnerable people and produced over 60 productions.
We partner with social prescribers, public health commissioners and health/social care services to deliver inclusive, free arts activities to support the recovery of vulnerable adults affected by addiction. We co-create dynamic arts interventions with each local Recovery Community (networks with common goal of recovery who offer peer support) where we work, helping a diverse range of people with complex needs across London and England to access arts-based interventions to support recovery and improve health and wellbeing.
“If it wasn’t for OETC, I’d keep relapsing. But I love OETC more than drinking or drugs.” – Participant
OETC’s free, peer-led drama activities work from an asset-based approach to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and increase optimism, hope and enjoyment. These arts-based interventions promote the Five Ways to Wellbeing (be active, connect, take notice, keep learning and give) to help build Recovery Capital (the internal and external resources required to maintain recovery). Our inclusive weekly arts activities encourage participants to develop healthy habits, discover new talents and reclaim centre stage in their own lives.
By providing personal, one-to-one Pastoral Care Support we empower service users to chart their own journey with us through our Participation Pathways. This robust and holistic scheme includes progressing from participation in drop-in Creative Activities to advanced actor training and performance opportunities, free Social Activities, such as theatre trips and holiday social events, and Volunteer & Employment Activities, such as peer mentoring, support facilitation and paid acting work.
Your Impact
In 2023/2024 we:
Supported 667 people
Delivered 456 arts-based intervention sessions
Impact in 2023/24:
87% said we supported their recovery
82% said their participation gives them direction or purpose
75% feel they made meaningful connections at OETC
70% report being more physically active
70% of those with depression reported improved wellbeing (WEMWBS scores)
65% helped to find a job/return to training/university
67% said it helps them take control of their lives
59% improved relationships with family and friends
£5
Will help provide the refreshments for one of our weekly drama groups for people in recovery.
£10
Will cover the volunteer expenses for a Peer Mentor to deliver a treatment facility Drama Taster Session.
£50
Will help to pay the venue hire fee for a weekly creative activity for people in recovery.
