Exploring the Future of Lincoln
Between January and March 2022, Zest facilitated an ambitious research project with over 1,000 young people across our home city!
Commissioned by city-wide partners, including University of Lincoln and City of Lincoln Council, Zest met 1,094 young people between January and March 2022. Our aim? To meet 10% of Lincoln’s population aged 10-19, balancing a cross-section of ages and experiences to get the widest possible reach for the conversations that arise. 50 workshops were delivered in schools, colleges, and community groups, making space for Lincoln’s children and young people to share their vision for the future of the city.
Each workshop was co-led by Zest Facilitators, local young people from Future Proof - Zest’s Youth Advisory Board, and Trainee Workshop Facilitators from Lincoln College. In addition, the entire process was overseen by steering groups of young people from St Peter at Gowts C.E. Primary School and Lincoln College - ensuring this is a project led by young people, for young people.
The findings of these workshops have now been compiled into an extensive report that is being used by partners from sectors across the city to inform and shape future strategy for Lincoln over the next decade.
Since the release of the report, Zest has been advocating for its recommendations at events and meetings all over Lincoln. A follow up action research project was commissioned by City of Lincoln Council in September and October to explore how Lincoln could Make Space for young people - the findings of which are now unpinning ambitious funding applications to make those spaces a reality. Look out for Zest’s own response to this in Summer 2023!
The Zest team with our Lincoln college steering group
Credits
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR / LEAD FACILITATOR
Toby Ealden
PRODUCER
Catherine Fowles
SUPPORTING FACILITATOR & ARCHIVIST
Jessica Bark
WORKSHOP FACILITATORS
Lachlan Madin
Cas Potterton
TRAINEE FACILITATORS
Sam Belbin
Libby Fielding
Tyler Haresign
Harry Hawkins
Benjamin Hutson
STEERING GROUPS
Year 6 St Peter at Gowts C.E. Primary School
Level 1 Performing Arts Lincoln College