[New] Herts Inclusive Theatre win a National Award

Herts Inclusive Theatre (HIT) aims to improve the well-being of people, particularly children and young people and those who are disadvantaged or disabled.

Since its inception in 2001, HIT has used the theatre and the arts to build confidence, improve well-being and develop skills in an inclusive, fun, creative space. Led by experienced practitioners, their activities are open to all and are especially welcoming to those with learning and physical disabilities.

They believe that everyone should have opportunities to enhance their lives through creative and educational activities in environments that are positive and welcoming to all, regardless of people’s background or abilities. Their termly theatre sessions take place at a variety of locations across Hertfordshire and one group in North London.

Now in its 21st year, Herts Inclusive Theatre is established as one of Hertfordshire’s leading inclusive companies; HIT were delighted to pick up the award for Diversity and Inclusion at the Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards in June 2022.

Following this, they were delighted to be put forward for the British Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2022, before winning the Equality Trailblazer Award, sponsored by British Business Bank. The Equality Trailblazer Award recognises the work of an organisation that champions diversity and promotes inclusion - in their workforce, their customers and any community outreach work.

HIT Director Caroline Stevens says, “To be recognised as a national leader in inclusion and diversity for a small charity based in Hertfordshire is absolutely fantastic. We were delighted to be recognised this year at the

We are particularly grateful to our sponsors, Musterhubs Bushells, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, Steve Charles Electrical and Holiday Inn Express, whose support enabled more of the money raised to go directly to the families.

Rebecca De Pledge from Steve Charles Electricals said “Steve Charles Electrical is a family run company and we are honoured to be given the opportunity to help vulnerable families - as ‘family’ is such a big value within our business.”

Home-Start have been supporting families for over 30 years across Hertfordshire but state that in that time they have not faced the level of challenges that they are experiencing now.

They offer one to one support from a trained Volunteer Family Mentor, in the family home, as well as running eight family groups across Hertfordshire.

Due to the increase in needs, and number for families waiting for support, HomeStart Herts are appealing for volunteers –if you are interested please email them at: admin@home-startherts.org.uk

Hertfordshire Chamber Awards but to then be put forward and go on to win the National Award has just blown us away. Inclusion is at our core and embedded in every part of the organisation, which was highlighted in our application.”

Herts Inclusive Theatre will be celebrating their 21st anniversary through a series of fully inclusive and creative events and activities taking place throughout the year, including two large scale productions of Matilda and Hairspray. Summer 2023 will be kicked off by their annual ‘Heart of HIT’ Awards ceremony which celebrates their participants and achievements from the year.

For more information, please visit www.hit-theatre.org.uk