Welcome to “Creative Lives”, a podcast which opens provocative conversations, experimenting with big ideas and local practices. We bring together researchers, experts by experience, artists and performers, approaching issues around community, learning, communication, healthcare, welfare, age and the life course. The possibilities of creativity are endless. Join us for mind-opening stimulus.

In podcast 2, Michael talks with presenter Lorna Collins about his work and life, on the topic of community, communication and engagement. Michael talks about how he uses art and creativity in response to the context of the pandemic, and issues around homelessness, mental health and community engagement.

Michael Chandler is CEO of the Union Chapel Project, the charity that oversees both the Union Chapel venue, the Margins homeless project, and a growing and increasingly ambitious creative community programme. Michael is also founder and chair of Sierra Leone-based charity Way Out Arts, which empowers street youth through music, film and media; and previously ran the country-wide national residency programme at homeless Forum Theatre company Cardboard Citizens.

The editing is by Nina Quach, and the music credit is “123 Inspiring Motivation Piano” by Tim Moor.

Transcript: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/grand-challenges/creative-lives-episode-2-community-communication-and-engagement