Arts Emergency

I am only giving one star to this particular organization because the server does not allow us to give zero stars. The concept and approach of this charity is amazing and Neil Griffiths (CEO) vision is definitely innovative and achievable. The problem are some of the unprofessional staff members which surprisingly includes a black female staff who normally accompanies mentees during trips. My cousin who joined the Arts Emergency as a mentor witnessed in several occasions a 16 year old mentee being bullied by three of the staff members and by the child's own mentor. One of the many reasons for the bullying was because the victim is a black girl. Thankfully this mentee is no longer working with this charity. My cousin advised this young lady to make an official complaint to Neil Griffiths but to my cousins surprise the mentee replayed that it would not lead to any where because it wouldn't be investigated and also because the accused staff would deny everything due to the seriousness and the nature of the accusation. My cousin tried to convince her to speak out and even offered to serve as a witness to the mistreatment but the young girl was frightened to come forward and refused to make a complaint. Instead, the young girl decided to create an excuse and left the mentorship program for good. Victims of bullying carry feelings of self doubt, distress and insecurity about themselves through adulthood/their lifes. This will often lead to suicidal thoughts and long term depression. The Arts Emergency must have robust measures in place to prevent bullying and mistreatments of any kind against mentees. Good organizations develop an ethos to prevent bullying from happening in first place and when it does occur, it is important to respond promptly and support the victim. The safety and wellbeing of all mentees must always be on the forefront of the Arts Emergency policy.
Dec 27th, 2020

Arts Emergency changed my life and elevated my career! I was mentored by the amazing Aaron in 2019. With the help of Arts Emergency and my fantastic mentor I was able to gain work experience at the Stage Media Company (one of the best Arts news publisher's in the UK). Following that I made amazing connections in the performance Industry and through hard work I successfully auditioned for my first professional acting role, later making my professional stage debut. I am now currently part of the Arts Emergency Young Talent, I am still very much in touch with them and supported by their fantastic team! If you have an interest in the Arts or the Humanitarian sector and are struggling to get your foot in the door apply for a mentor through Arts Emergency! With their help and your own determination and hard work they can provide you with career changing opportunities!
Aug 5th, 2021