In Our Own Voices - Leaving New Craig

"In Our Own Voices - Leaving New Craig" is a two year project that will document the life histories of up to 35 people with sensory, physical and learning disabilities, helping them explore their heritage as they make the life changing move from New Craig Hospital in Inverness into supported living in the community. New Craig is a long stay hospital and the people we will soon be supporting have lived there between 6 and 55 years. The project outputs are: 1. 35 disabled people living in New Craig hospital, their families and the people supporting them will have an opportunity to explore their cultural heritage through story telling, art and drama 2. Produce a DVD for each individual as a personal record of their story 3. Provide a public record of their stories as a resource for the future 4. Hold an event to inform the public about the heritage project The story telling project will use a range of creative and communication activities such as signing, pictures, tactile signifiers, drama, art - appropriate to their individual needs and access requirements, and film work to capture the life stories and histories of the individuals concerned, their families and carers, as well as the hospital staff supporting them in this major life changing event. Employing a storyteller and with support from a drama worker, visual artist and video worker, the project will enable individuals to tell their stories, communicate their feelings and views of their heritage and transition and support them in making future decisions in their new and changing environment, in the light of the past.