Storytelling

"We are all made of stories."

Stories help us to understand ourselves and the world around us.

Every day, we see the power of people in our community sharing their own stories in their own words. These stories have the power to change people's minds, inspire hope and push for change.

But we also see the power of fearmongering, hatred and confusion. Every single day we see multiple dehumanising stories in newspapers targeting people who are seeking safety from persecution and war.

Storytelling is one of the tools we have to fight back against dehumanisation.

Many people are keen to speak up and share their stories. But speaking to the media as somebody with lived experience can be a difficult process, and can even be re-traumatising.

We have compiled some resources to help you decide whether speaking to the media is right for you, and to help you decide what parts of your story to share.

 

Media training workshops

Our #NewScotsStorytellers media training workshops seek to equip participants with an understanding of how the media works and tips on how to look after yourself when working with the media.

We know that speaking to the media is challenging. It is important that you look after yourself and feel prepared before doing any interviews. Sharing your story should be a positive experience. And to share your story, you need to know what you want to share, and what you’d prefer to keep to yourself.

Watch this space for more information about future media training workshops.

If you are interested in finding out more, contact our Storytelling Officer.

 

Resources

We have compiled some fantastic resources which will not only help you work with media yourself, but also support others to engage with media work safely.

These include vital resources from On Road Media, IMIX, Media First, Throughline, and Campaign Bootcamp.

 

Preparing for an interview

How to support people with first-hand experience to do great media interviews

Setting boundaries when telling a difficult story

Developing key messages

Safeguarding checklist for media interviews

 

Working with journalists

How you can work effectively with journalists

The power of stories: creating connections with an audience

Getting your campaign in the press

 

Answering difficult questions

The bridging technique

Bridging: stay on track

Body language: tips for your TV interview

 

 

 

This project is part funded by the EU Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund. Making management of migration flows more efficient across the European Union.