A canvas for change: co-producing art to reduce the stigma of neurological disorders in Kenya

Neurological disorders, like epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease, can result in significant disability and suffering, which can be made worse by the stigma experienced by individuals and their families across all levels of society. In Kenya, where awareness is limited, people with neurological disorders are often accused of witchcraft or demonic possession. Due to the sensitive nature of stigma and complexity surrounding societal change, innovative ways of tackling stigma are crucial to successful outcomes. The arts are a well-known and powerful tool for challenging health-related stigma. Therefore, this research proposes the production of a community-based awareness campaign in the form of an arts festival in Kilifi, Kenya, which will be informed by, and co-created with, people with lived experience, using co-produced artistic outputs. The work will take place across three phases, drawing on interviews and co-production workshops with key stakeholders, with the ultimate goal of reducing stigma in this community.

Principal Investigator: Dr Natasha Fothergill-Misbah, Newcastle University