Case Study: Open Story Tellers
Mentorship Partner: Open Story Tellers
Beneficiary Focus: Individuals with Learning Disabilities
Mentor: Bob Snarey
Overview
OpenStoryTellers creates spaces where people with learning disabilities can find their voice and use it. As a company of artists, they foster creative communities that celebrate individuality and expression. Through performances, filmmaking, employment opportunities, and campaigning, OpenStoryTellers enables participants to become active citizens, finding dignity, purpose, and community.
Why This Project Matters
People with learning disabilities often face social isolation, cultural exclusion, and limited opportunities to express themselves. Key challenges include:
1 in 3 young people with learning disabilities spend less than one hour outside their home on a typical Saturday
Over half of disabled adults report feeling lonely
Up to 40% of adults with learning disabilities experience mental health problems
Less than 6% of adults with learning disabilities are in employment
High risk of hate crime, with almost three in four people with autism and learning disabilities experiencing it
This project addresses these challenges by integrating AI into OpenStoryTellers’ creative and advocacy work:
Accessible AI Guidance: Through their in-house creative enterprise, Pigeon Productions, OpenStoryTellers will produce an accessible guide to AI tailored for people with learning disabilities.
Practical Application: The guide will be trialled through ongoing advocacy projects, enabling participants to interact with AI in meaningful, creative ways.
Knowledge Sharing: Learnings will be disseminated through partner organisations and networks to expand reach and impact.
Scalable, Multi-Layered Impact
People with learning disabilities gain practical skills and confidence engaging with AI
Creative expression is enhanced through digital and artistic tools
Partner organisations and networks benefit from inclusive AI insights and methodologies
A Model for the Future
By embedding AI into creative advocacy, OpenStoryTellers demonstrates how technology can amplify voices often unheard. This project exemplifies a future where learning disability communities can access tools, skills, and opportunities that promote agency, inclusion, and empowerment — turning creative expression into a platform for social change.