Over recent years, definitions of ‘risk’ and who is considered ‘risky’ by whom has been the source of much political and social debate. Indeed Beck argues that the interpretation of risk is ‘open to social definition and construction’ (Beck in Adam and Van Loon 2000). In this interdisciplinary roundtable discussion we will be asking theatre practitioners, theorists, clinicians and researchers to reflect on what it means to care for those ‘at risk’ and how the performance of caring in the context of ‘risk’ and ‘risky’ behaviour informs their approach to working with young people. Around the table will be:

Professor Stephen Briggs, Associate Dean, Tavistock and Portman Trust
Guglielmo Schinina, Lead, Mental Health, Psychosocial Response and Intercultural Communication Section, IOM, Geneva
Ian Noonan, Lecturer Mental Health, and Mari Barnes, Lecturer Acute Nursing,Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery, King’s College, London
Dr Anna Gupta, Head of Social Work, Royal Holloway, University London

Michael Kerman, Clinical Director, Kids Company
Dr Nicola Shaughnessy, Lecturer in Drama and Theatre Studies, University of Kent
Denise Hubble, Clinical Services Director, Mosac
Amanda Stuart Fisher (Chair) Project leader Care and Partnership: Applied Theatre and Social Enterprise, Central School of Speech and Drama.  

NB Colleagues with a special interest in the debate are invited to be a participant observer. In applying for one of a very limited number of free places, please indicate where you are coming from and your interest in the topic.