Rehabilitation Methods

Gain more insight into some of Unlock Drama's key rehabilitation methods through theatre.

1. Transferrable Skills
Unlock Drama harnesses the power of theatre to develop essential life skills among participants. Through engaging in performance arts, individuals enhance their teamwork capabilities, communication skills, and other soft skills. These workshops are tailored to address the unique challenges faced by participants, including those who are neurodivergent, facilitating their integration into further training, educational or employment opportunities within their custodial setting and beyond. This holistic skill development is pivotal in aiding rehabilitation and reducing the likelihood of re-offending.

2. Improved Mental Health
Our projects at Unlock Drama place a significant emphasis on mental health and wellbeing by using drama to help participants express themselves and alleviate stress. Acting and participation in theatre can be profoundly therapeutic, offering an outlet for emotion and a form of escapism from the daily pressures of incarceration. By fostering a supportive environment where individuals can explore personal issues and mental health challenges, Unlock Drama aids in building resilience and promoting long-term well-being.

3. Increased Confidence
At the heart of our methodology is the boost in self-esteem and public speaking skills through performance. Participants are given a platform to assert themselves and share their stories, which bolsters their confidence both on and off stage. This increased self-assurance is crucial when participants return to their communities, helping them to re-integrate successfully and engage positively with society.

4. Victim Awareness
Unlock Drama incorporates victim awareness into our projects by enabling participants to role-play and assume the perspectives of victims. This method not only cultivates empathy but also helps participants understand the broader impact of their actions. By walking in the shoes of others, they can better comprehend the consequences of crime, which in turn, nurtures a heightened sense of responsibility and social consciousness.

5. Consequential Thinking
Our workshops emphasise consequential thinking through structured role-play, where participants can explore various outcomes based on different decisions. This practice encourages them to consider the long-term effects of their actions and to identify positive alternatives to past behaviours. This form of cognitive behaviour awareness is integral in our efforts to transform thought patterns and encourage better decision-making in high-stakes environments.