Impact Storytelling: the Ecosystem, the Evidence and Possible Futures (pdf) is a new milestone research report commissioned by the University of the Arts London’s AKO Storytelling Institute, has been designed to be an essential resource for storytellers, creatives, researchers, and funders aiming to collaborate and harness the impact of storytelling for social change.
The report maps the structure of the impact storytelling ecosystem both in the UK and internationally, identifying its key players, engaging with current live debates, and examining how to foster collaboration in a still fragmented field.
Among the recommendations are for:
- Strengthening the UK impact storytelling ecosystem through integrated funding, leadership from marginalised communities, and investment in large-scale action over research, guided by principles of co-creation, anti-oppression, and decoloniality
- Greater collaboration and integration across arts, media, tech, and social movements, supported by academic and interdisciplinary efforts, to significantly enhance the impact and credibility of the impact storytelling ecosystem
- Further training and accredited courses across the impact storytelling ecosystem, including specialised training for roles like ‘impact producers,’ grassroots training, leadership coaching, and university-led programmes to formalise and standardise the field
- Creating an essential online, user-friendly catalogue of research to consolidate existing knowledge, prevent duplication, and enhance accessibility.
Francesca Panetta, Director AKO Storytelling Institute, said:
“This report charts the wide expanse of a new ecosystem that is only just beginning to form. We hope that it serves as an in-depth reference guide for everyone who funds, supports or works in impact storytelling. I am filled with hope and conviction about storytelling for social change across the UK and around the world.”
