RESEARCH
Why We're Doing This
We're exploring how BPOC-led creative spaces can function as protective factors for mental health and wellbeing within Scotland's creative sector.
Our Research Journey
Through extensive consultation with our steering group of Black and Global Majority creatives, we identified three critical themes affecting our communities:
The need for BPOC-led spaces
Systemic change in creative industries and mental health services
Economic pressures and their impact on mental health
This first phase focuses on BPOC-led spaces - identified as the most urgent priority by our community. Future research phases will address the systemic and economic challenges.
Why BPOC Spaces First
Our steering group and case studies made it clear: BPOC-led spaces are essential for our wellbeing. Scotland's creative industries are predominantly white, leaving racialised* creatives without spaces where they can connect authentically, share experiences, and feel truly understood. Traditional venues and support services often lack cultural competence, while existing mental health frameworks don't capture how our communities understand healing, joy, and collective care.
*We use the term racialised as it reflects a process whereby people are categorised by the white-led systems they exist within. The participant demographic for this research project is focused on people who experience racism based on their race or ethnicity. Please do not apply if you identify as white, regardless of your nationality or migration history.
What We Want to Understand
Through these group interviews, we're investigating:
Why BPOC spaces matter - how they protect and nurture our mental health differently than mainstream spaces
What these spaces could look like - imagining environments designed by and for our communities
How they would function - exploring governance, activities, and support structures that reflect our values
The difference they would make - understanding how BPOC-led spaces could transform creative practice and wellbeing
Building the Evidence
This research will provide the first comprehensive evidence base for why Scotland needs BPOC-led creative spaces. Your contributions will:
Demonstrate to funders why investing in BPOC-led spaces is essential
Create blueprints for what genuine BPOC creative spaces could be
Lay the groundwork for addressing systemic and economic barriers in future research phases
Your voice matters. Together, we're building the evidence to create the BPOC-led creative spaces Scotland needs - spaces where we can thrive, not just survive.
What's Involved
The Sessions
6 sessions total: 2 online, 4 in-person across Scotland
In-person sessions: In physical spaces with community lunch afterwards (Dundee, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh)
Online sessions: via Zoom
Small groups: Maximum 12 participants for in-person, maximum 10 for online
Session Dates
Dundee - Monday 22nd September 2025, 10am-3pm
Aberdeen - Tuesday 23rd September 2025, 10am-3pm
Online - Monday 29th September 2025, 6pm-9pm
Glasgow - Tuesday 30th September 2025, 10am-3pm
Online - Monday 6th October 2025, 6pm-9pm
Edinburgh - Tuesday 7th October 2025, 10am-3pm
If you are unable to attend any of these dates but would still like to have your voice heard, please get in touch with us at hello@creativebalance.scot
What We'll Do
You don't need any art experience! We'll:
Create individual collages exploring your wellbeing experiences
Work together on mapping/collective collages imagining BPOC-led creative spaces
Share and discuss in a supportive environment
Take regular breaks including a 20-minute comfort break
What You'll Receive
Practical Support
Travel expenses covered for in-person sessions
Materials provided (sent to you for online sessions)
Community meal at in-person sessions
Accessibility considerations with wheelchair access and quiet spaces
Wellbeing Support
Up to 2 hours of free therapy with vetted Black and POC practitioners
Access to support resources and signposting
Culturally responsive environment facilitated by BPOC researchers
Resource pack with ongoing support information
Group holistic sessions exploring somatics and breath work
Your Contribution
Your voice shapes the research - you're a collaborator, not just a participant
Complete confidentiality - your identity will be protected*
Freedom to share as much or as little as you're comfortable with
Right to withdraw at any time
*for Data Collection and GDPR please visit HERE
Who Can Join
We're looking for:
People who identify as Black, Global Majority, or racialised
Creative practitioners or those working in creative industries in Scotland
Ages 18+
All disciplines and experience levels welcome
Ready to Apply?
Important Dates
Expression of Interest deadline: Monday 1st September 2025, 5pm
You'll hear from us by: Friday 5th September 2025, 5pm
Before you apply, please note:
This form is an initial expression of interest
If oversubscribed, we'll use a selection process to ensure diverse representation across intersectional identities, creative disciplines, and geographic locations
Please only apply if you can commit to attending the full session - your voice and participation are valuable to this research and to other participants
We understand life happens, but building trust and community within these sessions requires consistent participation from all involved.
Please note: If the application form is inaccessible to you, or you require support completing it, please email us at hello@creativebalance.scot - if you would prefer to submit and audio or video response, please use this email address also.
Application Support Available If you'd prefer to apply by phone, need assistance with the form, or want to share this opportunity with someone without internet access or needing support, please call or text 07873 287666.
Questions?
Contact us at hello@creativebalance.scot