Centre Write Summer 2018

Matters of the mind

Sam Gyimah MP | Nimco Ali | MP | Antoinette Sandbach MP 2

Contents

EDITORIAL Professor Julie Barnett 8 Editor’s letter The final chapter for FGM? Olivia Utley 4 Nimco Ali 10 Director’s note Seeking help in the darkest times Ryan Shorthouse 5 Antoinette Sandbach MP 11 Letters to the editor 6

SOME SOLUTIONS WOMEN FIRST Really connecting Staying afloat Alex Smith 12 Nancy Tucker 7 Money on the mind The lonely mother Bettina Friedrich 14

Page 12 Alex Smith offers a prospectus for a more connected society

Bright Blue is an independent Page 20 The Centre Write think tank and pressure group interview: MP for liberal conservatism.

Director: Ryan Shorthouse Chair: Matthew d’Ancona Board of Directors: Rachel Johnson, Alexandra Jezeph, Diane Banks, Phil Clarke & Richard Mabey

Editor: Olivia Utley brightblue.org.uk Print: Aquatint | aquatint.co.uk Design: Chris Solomons CONTENTS 3

A mindful moment Research update ARTS & BOOKS MP 15 James Dobson 23 Exhibition: Eden to empire Down and in debt Take a walk on the wild side Oscar Rocklin 28 Helen Undy 16 Eamonn Ives 24 12 rules for life: Rethinking justice Scientific solutions An antidote to chaos Karen Snedker 17 Gabriel Gavin 25 (Jordan B. Peterson) Loneliness doesn’t discriminate Ryan Shorthouse 29 Tracey Crouch MP 19 Television: Love Island Philip Box 30 BRIGHT BLUE POLITICS TEA FOR TWO The crossway The Centre Write interview: with George Freeman MP (Guy Stagg) Sam Gyimah MP 20 Olivia Utley 26 Portia Berry Kilby 31

Page 26 Tea for two with George Page 19 Tracey Crouch MP Freeman talks about her new role as MP Minister for Loneliness

Page 7 Nancy Tucker delves deeper into the issue of women who suffer from mental illness EDITORIAL 4

Olivia Utley is the Editor’s letter Editor of Centre Write and Communications Manager at Bright Blue

t any one time, a sixth of the population in aged deserves attention, such as anxiety, eating disorders and post- 16 to 64 have a mental health problem. Whether it is family traumatic stress disorder. A or friends, neighbours or work colleagues, the chances If we are to tackle the mental ill health epidemic in Britain, are we all know someone who is affected. And bearing in mind the education and understanding is the first step. With this in mind, figure leaves out less common conditions and is a snapshot in time, we’ve dedicated this summer edition of Centre Write to mental you could easily argue it is even more prevalent than that. Indeed, health. The first chapter of the magazine – ‘Women first’ – is many do. intended to help shine light on the ubiquity of mental health Since that famous speech on the steps of Downing Street problems for women in the UK, while the second – ‘Some in 2016, has insisted that “tackling the injustice of solutions’ – proposes some ideas for tackling the scourge. mental illness” is one of her “absolute priorities” as Prime Minister. One such solution is Gabriel Gavin’s proposal (p.25) Her Government has promised to treat mental health as seriously that more money and energy should be injected into as physical health and is spending a record amount on mental neuroscience. The UK is a leader in scientific research, and health services. yet our expenditure on research and development is relatively And, slowly, the situation is improving. An additional 120,000 low. Another is Oxford academic Karen Snedker’s (p.17) people are now receiving specialist mental health treatment proposal that those with mental health issues should be treated compared to 2016, and there has been a significant increase in differently by the justice system. ‘talking’ therapies. According to NHS figures, 60,000 more people will get treatments for common mental health conditions by the end “ There is still a long way to go. Too many of this year. people suffer in silence, worried that their But there is still a long way to go. Too many people suffer in depression or anxiety will be seen as silence, worried that their depression or anxiety will be seen as weakness.” weakness. As Sam Gyimah MP, the Minister for Universities and Coming at the problem from a very different angle, Alex Science, discusses in our Centre Write interview (p.20), Smith (p.12), Founder and CEO of North Cares, the backdrop to this year’s exam season in universities was suggests that in the wake of digital technology – which all too mounting concern about student mental health. At often prioritises efficiency over sociability – we need new ideas, University, in the frantic three-week revision period running and a new focus not just on making life liveable or efficient, but up to end-of-year exams, three university students died on making life worth living. In our Tea for two Interview, George suddenly. There have now been 10 student deaths there Freeman MP (p.26) touches on a similar point. Through the in little over 18 months, several which have been confirmed Big Tent Festival, he hopes to capture the spirit of renewal as suicide – and those are just the stories that make the exhibited by so many communities. headlines. As Parliament squabbles over the minutiae of Meanwhile, as Professor Julie Barnett (p.8) highlights in negotiations, it is imperative that the social reform promised a record number of mothers are reporting symptoms of mental at the start of the Prime Minister’s premiership doesn’t get illness. Statistics vary, but it is now believed that between forgotten. When it comes to tackling the ‘burning injustice’ of fifty percent and ninty percent of mothers experience the mental ill health, we know what needs to be done. All that is ‘baby blues’, and one in 10 experience postnatal depression. required is the political will to act. Ultimately, the economic and And between feeling tearful and overwhelmed and severe moral case for doing so could not be clearer: the state will save depression, there is a spectrum of mental health problems that a fortune, and it will transform countless lives. EDITORIAL 5

guide how politicians and practitioners perfect or escape problems, we should Director’s note deal with problems. Neuroscience is a try and learn to be more accepting and nascent field; there is a lot to learn about resilient of inevitable and random downs the workings of the mind. There is still and disruptions in life. Danish philosopher very limited knowledge about the precise Svend Brinkmann, for instance, has Ryan Shorthouse is the causes of mental health problems, as written about the need to resist the ‘self- Director of Bright Blue well as the efficacy of different remedies. improvement craze’. Despite this, confident conclusions about mental health are – unhelpfully, arrogantly “ By looking outwards, on in fact – circulated. the responsibilities we ore people are talking about their It is common in public debate, for have towards others, we mental health. Sharing stories example, to hear of an explosion in mental give ourselves necessary M about their suffering. Shame is health problems, especially among young respite from exhausting being overcome, silence avoided. This is a people. Recent NSPCC research into introspection.” welcome trend. Difficulties should not be some NHS Trusts show that referrals by dealt with alone. schools to child and adolescent mental Here, there are familiarities with We are social animals, requiring health services rose by a over a third in the insights of conservative thinking, conversation for reassurance, perspective the last three years. Likewise, there has increasingly critical of excessive and enjoyment. And by looking outwards, been a doubling of the prescription of individualism, with thinkers calling on the responsibilities we have towards antidepressants by the NHS over the past for individuals to better balance their others, we give ourselves necessary decade, with 7.3 million receiving these focus on nurturing independence with respite from exhausting introspection. drugs from the NHS in 2017-18. interdependence. Professor Roger Loneliness truly is one of society’s ‘giant But these figures do not necessarily Scruton argues: “Self-consciousness and evils’. demonstrate there has been a growth freedom emerge through the venture out All this attention is, happily, resulting in the prevalence of mental health from the self towards the other”. in increased individual and societal conditions. It could be that they reflect a Those who do descend into mental investment in the prevention and treatment greater public awareness of mental health turmoil, of course, are facing real pain that of mental illness. Some are now working conditions, and medicines for treating requires urgent and effective treatment. on their psychological, not just physical them. Indeed, the biggest ever meta- But there is still ongoing debate about health by trying to eat, sleep and exercise study of anxiety and depression found no what works best: medication, cognitive better, and even building in moments evidence that the prevalence of mental behavioral therapy, maybe just more of mindfulness – encouraged by some disorder in the world increased between outdoors time. Admittedly, better schools and employers – into their daily 1990 and 2010. evidence has emerged on the efficacy of routines. Still, we frequently hear that we antidepressants, which should quieten the The Prime Minister has pledged to have a mounting mental health crisis. scaremongering about drugs: a meta-study tackle the ‘burning injustice’ of those who Commonly cited causes are constantly by a group of pan-European academics, suffer from mental health problems who regurgitated. The number of exams released this year, showed nearly all of 21 do not have “enough help to hand”. A young people now must undertake. The common antidepressants are modestly significant injection of public funding for hyper-competitiveness that capitalism effective in making people feel better, but NHS mental health services has been has created. The addictiveness and with significant variation between them. granted. New government targets for judgmentalism of social media. These Nevertheless, unsurprisingly, there were access to and waiting times for services theories seem compelling. But they are still limitations with this research, such as have been introduced. Just recently, the heavily politicised. And they are not success being measured after only eight Government committed to guaranteeing currently supported by sufficient or robust weeks and the variance in the quality of eligibility to the Blue Badge Scheme for evidence. the different studies evaluated. free and designated parking to people with Interestingly, there has recently been a It is good news that we are talking some mental health problems. growth in intellectual scepticism around about mental health much more in modern But, in some respects, we should be the fixation with our mental health, rooted society. But such conversations need to careful. Evidence, not fashion, should in ancient stoicism. Instead of seeking to be informed by better evidence. EDITORIAL 6

Letters to the editor

Send your letters to [email protected]

I was pleased to read MP’s eloquent piece (‘Strongly soft’, Spring 2018) on the importance of soft power. It is my belief that in many international disputes, soft power can be the answer to disagreement. Culture has an indispensable place in every human society, and to share one’s culture with another is a gesture of friendship. Of course, it is naïve and sometimes dangerous never to consider hard power. But when you are lucky enough to have at your disposal the cultural exports Britain has, it would be madness not to use them. As Damian Collins MP noted in his article, Shakespeare and the Premier League will open doors – and, with prolonged diplomatic effort, will keep them open too.

Molly Greenwood member of Bright Blue

Benedict Rogers’ piece (‘The end of human rights in ’, Spring 2018) on the slow but sure erosion of human rights in Hong Kong was an interesting and worrying summary of events. Although Mr Rogers made reference to encouraging signs of increased attention being paid in Whitehall to the degradation of the agreed ‘one country, two systems’ The previous issue of Centre Write focused on how Britain approach, I can’t help but think that a more assertive will can lead the world after leaving the , but, as continue to break its commitments – and do so with increasing we all know, we remain a bitterly divided country. As the debate impunity. As China assumes greater influence on the world between Joseph Harker and MP (‘Was and stage, it will expect deference not questioning. is the UK a force for good?’, Spring 2018) proved, political With this in mind, we cannot let trade and investment polarisation is on the rise. British history, once a passive part trump values. China’s investment, such as that in Hinkley of the furniture, now features on the front line of bitter ‘culture Point C and new high-speed rail, cannot be allowed to impair wars’, often fought on the internet. If Britain is truly to lead our judgement. Be it Hong Kong or Tibet, the UK must never globally on anything, it must first come together. This is easier let itself be silenced on these issues, even if the culprit is a said than done, of course, but after Brexit is over, it must be our geopolitical colossus in waiting. first priority.

Michael Greenall member of Bright Blue Robert Wilson member of Bright Blue WOMEN FIRST 7

Nancy Tucker is the author Staying afloat of The time in between and That was when people started to worry Nancy Tucker delves deeper into the issue of women who suffer from mental illness

hen I tell people that my second book, That was when Wpeople started to worry, explores mental illness in young women, I am often asked why I chose to focus on this subgroup. The stereotype of a mental illness sufferer is still, in the minds of many, a listless adolescent girl, wringing hands and dabbing tears from hollow cheeks. By writing a book about female mental illness, am I not bolstering this cardboard cut-out character, denying representation to the many older, non-female sufferers?

“ The message, ‘You can amongst those with a more complex these interviews, recounted word for word: be anything you want to gender identity is in its infancy, hence we rather, I condensed the many stories I heard be!’ was once empowering do not have a good understanding of the into seven self-contained snapshots, each and inspirational, but is scale of suffering amongst trans and non- of which offers an insight into the day-to-day now a lofty standard few binary people. experience of living with a certain condition. can reach.” However, it is irresponsible – and It is these snapshots – clear, unclouded inappropriate – to entirely explain away windows into unwell minds – that my If the perception that mental illness the high levels of mental illness women interviewees felt were missing from affects women disproportionately were experience. contemporary representations of mental baseless, then yes – a book about female illness. The topic is enjoying a long mental illness would be of little value. But “ Many young women feel overdue moment in the forefront of public this is not the case: the most recent Adult chronically insufficient, consciousness, which is positive – but Psychiatric Morbidity Survey found that relentlessly inadequate, media depictions remain superficial and 26% of young women aged between 16 hauntingly imperfect.” sanitised. We see the tears and the and 24 reported symptoms of common bitten nails and the drawn curtains: the mental health problems, compared to just That was when people started to inoffensively vulnerable face of psychiatric 9.1% of men. Women in this age group worry is based on interviews I conducted disorder. In media campaigns, sufferers also reported higher levels of suicidality with 70 women aged between 16 and are reminded that they should ‘Speak Up’ and self-harm than any other group. Yes, 25, all of whom had experienced – or and ‘Speak Out’ and ‘Speak Now’, without reporting bias affects these statistics: were experiencing – mental illness. Their any acknowledgement that, all too often, women may experience less stigma diagnoses spanned the technicolour intensity speaking ‘up’ or ‘out’ or ‘now’ earns the surrounding psychiatric suffering than men, of bipolar disorder and the murky grey of speaker a place on a two-year waiting list, and young people may be less reserved depression; the wound-too-tight tension not the immediate medical treatment they than their older counterparts. of anxiety and the viscous shame of binge need. We do not see the lies and the angry At present, research on mental health eating disorder. The book does not contain words and the erratic behaviour. We do WOMEN FIRST 8

>> not see the ugly side of suffering, with but is now a lofty standard few can reach. that women are not disproportionately the result that, when ugliness rears its head, ‘You can be anything’ has become ‘you affected by mental illness because of it is met with open mouths and averted eyes. should be everything’, with the implicit weakness or hysteria, but because of My interviewees felt that the public wants to message that failure is unacceptable. Many sensitivity and societal standards. The talk about mental illness – but only the fluffy young women feel chronically insufficient, women whose stories I heard were side. They do not want to know about the relentlessly inadequate, hauntingly brave, interesting and engaging, and their grim reality. imperfect, and they seek solace in the struggles were unrelated to any personal From writing this book, I learnt that leering self-congratulation of an online world flaw or failing. In almost every case, the mental health crisis amongst young in which rich, powerful people make poorer, unhappiness arose from unluckiness: an women is fuelled by a society in which more vulnerable people feel inferior. Mental unfortunate interaction between internal we are encouraged to push and strive illness can never be attributed to a single disposition and external circumstances that and succeed, and not taught the value of cause – but, at the macro level, much blame allowed mental illness to thrive. I felt huge contentment and humility. The message, must be laid at the feet of the two S’s: respect and warmth towards every woman I ‘You can be anything you want to be!’ success and social media. interviewed, and it was an honour to be able was once empowering and inspirational, Writing the book also confirmed to me to speak with their voices.

The lonely mother Julie Barnett is a Professor of Health Psychology at the Professor Julie Barnett discusses the feelings of isolation felt by many University of Bath new mothers

oneliness matters because it can experienced loneliness. But – thankfully – it that ‘breast is best’ can further compound affect physical and mental health. is now being recognised that momentous a sense of being alone, as mothers feel L It is increasingly commonplace to life transitions can leave all sorts of people vulnerable to the judgement and rejection observe that being lonely carries a greater feeling lonely. One such transition is that of others. health risk than smoking 15 cigarettes of becoming a mother for the first time. A Second, there are fewer opportunities a day. recent survey found that over a quarter of for social interaction. Pre-baby networks of new mothers experience loneliness after friends and family are busy doing the things “ It was very clear from the birth of their child. they were doing before. The possibilities our research that one Recent research has suggested at least for spontaneous trips out have receded. recurring cause of new three important reasons. Going out means organisation and mothers feeling vulnerable First, there are unexpected difficulties planning, and reduced control can mean a and isolated was the which jar with popular representations feeling of being stuck or trapped. contradiction between the of motherhood. In popular culture, But it is not simply about a lack of feelings and experiences new mothers are often portrayed as opportunities to be with other people. The they were actually having consistently serene and joyful, leaving third reason that becoming a mother can and the ones they thought real women unprepared for the confusing feel lonely is that even when surrounded that they ought to be reality of responsibility and uncertainty. by others, it is difficult for mothers having, often gleaned In feeding practices, where mothers feel to develop, or nurture, meaningful from the media.” sole responsibility for ensuring that their connections. The practical support offered children thrive, this disparity becomes by loved ones can feel superficial when There used to be a widely held particularly apparent. Fear of failing to act what is wanted is empathetic, emotional misconception that only elderly people in line with the dominant cultural narrative support, borne of a genuine and in-depth WOMEN FIRST 9

>> understanding of the situation. It was very clear from our research increasing meaningful social connections? Relationships with other new mothers that one recurring cause of new mothers It looks like it. In recent years, there has are often a potential source of empathy and feeling vulnerable and isolated was the been an explosion of new mothers on group reassurance. But this is a double-edged contradiction between the feelings and messaging platforms, such as Whatsapp, sword: actual or feared judgement from, experiences they were actually having which are thought to increase a feeling of or rejection by, other mothers can amplify and the ones they thought that they ought camaraderie: via a middle of the night digital feelings of loneliness and vulnerability. to be having, often gleaned from the chat, mothers can be reassured that other media or from the outward appearance mothers, too, are awake with their babies. “ Via a middle of the night of other mothers. Making available to That said, it is vital that digital support digital chat, mothers can new mothers more diverse examples of systems offer a clear-eyed view of the be reassured that other new motherhood experiences might stop vulnerabilities new mothers feel, the mothers, too, are awake first-timers comparing themselves with friendships they desire, and the practical with their babies.” often unattainable ideals. This may also challenges they face, as otherwise they lead, in time, to the broader circulation in run the risk of amplifying – rather than It is perhaps significant that although society of less narrow and prescriptive attenuating – loneliness. bottle feeding could cause stress, representations of motherhood. Loneliness is a relational issue, and so breastfeeding seems to be a factor in Finally, it is important to think about the principle behind each of these possible each of these three broad reasons for the potential role of digital technology in ‘solutions’ is that the responsibility for new mothers feeling lonely. Breastfeeding mitigating loneliness. The rise of digital dissolving or reducing it lies not only with may not feel natural and easy – and it can technology is often held responsible for those experiencing it, but also, crucially heighten the sense of restriction on when eroding the quality of our relationships. But with the wider social systems and networks and where you can go. can it have a role in enabling empathy and available to new mothers. WOMEN FIRST 10

Nimco Ali is co-founder The final chapter for FGM? and Director at Daughters of Eve

The UK must offer more holistic support to victims of female genital mutilations

underwent female genital mutilation of my friends had also been cut, but, might lead to flashbacks of the actual (FGM) at the age of seven. The first unlike them, I had also had to undergo the FGM she had gone through decades I time the NHS became involved was medical treatment that followed. The limbo previously, or how the first time she went when I was given a deinfibulation at the in which I was left affected my education, to the toilet would be exactly like the age of 11. This was a procedure that and the relationships I would form for first time after her FGM. The nurse was helped divide scar tissue. The NHS saved many years to come. Being an introvert, lovely and made sure that she was OK my life; without it I would have died from I naturally internalised my turmoil and while she was under her care. But even kidney failure. developed a serious eating disorder. she did not realise that the support my FGM is a form of violence through friend was going to need would not stop “ The nurse was lovely and which, as with all acts of violence, the at the simple removal of her stitches. I made sure that she was perpetrators exercise power and control felt almost as traumatised as my friend OK while she was under over their victims. For the victims, the that day and witnessing her pain over the her care. But even she did result is intense emotional pain – which is next few weeks brought back my own not realise that the support hidden from view. experience and my own struggle to get my friend was going to Data on the prevalence of FGM is now beyond FGM. need would not stop at easy to obtain. There are also dedicated the simple removal of her clinics to cater for the physical needs “ But I was far from OK, and stitches.” of girls and women affected by FGM, I was not OK for a long as well as support plans for pregnant time afterwards. As painful The scars of FGM, though, are not women. But what is still painfully lacking as the original act of FGM just physical. They are also emotional is any proper emotional or psychological had been, what hurt even and psychological. The deinfibulation support for victims. The reason for this more was the struggle procedure may have undone much of the is not a shortage of funds, but a lack of of finding answers to the physical damage, but psychologically, it understanding about what is actually avalanche of questions I had left me in a mess. needed. had about my body and my I did not understand, as a child, what experience.” was happening to me as I was rushed into “ The limbo in which I was one of Cardiff’s biggest hospitals for the left affected my education, Here in the UK, we have moved emergency deinfibulation surgery. When it and the relationships I forwards in leaps and bounds in our was over, I was told that the damage had would form for many years journey to end FGM. But to progress been reversed, and that everything would to come.” further, we have to get past the figures now be OK. and start offering holistic support to But I was far from OK, and I was not A close friend of mine underwent a victims. This means increasing investment OK for a long time afterwards. As painful voluntary deinfibulation procedure just in mental health support for anyone who as the original act of FGM had been, what last week. Because the procedure was has undergone FGM or any subsequent hurt even more was the struggle of finding technically successful, the only follow- deinfibulation. This is the final step in answers to the avalanche of questions I up she received was a check-up on the making the UK a real leader on this issue had about my body and my experience. state of the scar tissue. There was no – and one that cannot be delayed for a I felt different from everyone else. Many conversation about how the deinfibulation moment longer. WOMEN FIRST 11

Antoinette Sandbach Seeking help in the darkest times is the MP for Eddisbury and Chair of the APPG on Baby Loss Antoinette Sandbach MP explores the role government can play in helping the bereaved

nyone who has lost a child knows feet, is vital. We must, however, also quality support. Nonetheless, the sense how the indescribable emotional work to ensure that there is a recognition that you’re not alone, that other people A and psychological toll hits you of the impact that systems play in the understand how you’re feeling, and aren’t in waves. The initial feeling of panic bereavement process. Our excellent NHS judging you for it, is one of the most and bewilderment gives way to hollow provides care to millions, but its systems supportive and reassuring things you can numbness, which in time dissolves into are Byzantine, and on occasion, it loses experience at such a difficult time. grief. It is quite normal to blame yourself sight of the individual. While teams of and those around you, from your partner doctors and nurses may be compassionate “ Our excellent NHS to your doctors. And at the bottom of it all, and thoughtful, their care can be totally provides care to millions, there is a single burning question: why? undermined if the system is set up in a but its systems are Ultimately, nothing will make up for the way which leaves the user feeling isolated Byzantine, and on loss of a child. The impact stays with you and vulnerable. By disempowering people occasion, it loses sight of for life. But there are a number of steps at the point when they most need to feel the individual. While teams that employers and government can take to some degree of control, complex systems of doctors and nurses make things a little easier for those risk becoming unkind ones. may be compassionate who have to cope with this very specific This is why the ‘National Bereavement and thoughtful, their care kind of loss. Care Pathway’ is so important. It ensures can be totally undermined that all parents who have lost babies are if the system is set up in “ In times of grief or mental offered equal, high quality, individualised, a way which leaves the stress, even the smallest safe and sensitive care. It offers medical user feeling isolated and gesture can and does staff a point of reference to ensure that vulnerable.” make the difference.” they deal sensitively with an issue that, while familiar to them, is devastating for In recent years I’ve been supported A recent and significant step was the their patients. by my colleagues, especially members of introduction of the Parental Bereavement One of the great things about being the APPG on Baby Loss, but everyone Bill. Although the vast majority of employers elected to Parliament is having the chance finds support in different places, and no are already compassionate and responsive to make the sort of changes I have one should be embarrassed about asking to the needs of an employee who loses discussed above. Working with colleagues, for the help they require. Of course, it their child, this is not always the case. With we have aimed to introduce measures that can be difficult to know what to say, and 8,000 parents suffering the loss of a child make the process easier to cope with and how to support those still grieving, but it a year, there is a clear need to offer these the system more responsive. While nothing is important to do so. In times of grief or people some protection from the whims can take away from the loss of a child, mental stress, even the smallest gesture of their employers. The fact that the vast systems and bureaucracy can feel hostile can and does make the difference. majority of employers are kind and decent in the moment, even if those working within With the positive steps being made means little to those who fear that taking that system are compassionate and caring. in recognising the impact of poor mental time to mourn will cost them their job. It is also important that we are honest health more generally, at last it is getting This kind of practical support, giving and open about the fact that none of easier to talk about needing help. But when parents the time they deem necessary to these changes is a silver bullet. The loss it comes to talking about the loss of a child, process the loss and get back on their of a child will never be mitigated by good there is still a long way to go. SOME SOLUTIONS 12

Alex Smith is CEO and Really connecting founder of North London Cares and South London Cares. He was formerly an Alex Smith offers a prospectus for a more connected society aide to Ed Miliband MP

t Paddington Station the other day, instinct for play, humour, personality, the trade unions to faith groups to charities I got a little flustered. Bank card even silliness and flirtation, and ultimately – is eroding. And our public services are A in one hand, phone attached to connection with others. creaking: one in ten GP appointments is wiry headphones in the other, I felt a pang The phenomenon is everywhere. taken up by an older person with no other of anxiety as, with the train to Twyford due Somehow, the word ‘social’ has come condition than that they’re lonely. to depart imminently, the machine buzzed to mean sending a tweet or posting on This disconnection in our connected and counted down to a “transaction failed” Instagram; or it’s an all too remote service age is the result of several complex, message. of government – social security, social layered factors. Globalisation, Eventually, I made the train. But my services, social care, social housing. But gentrification, migration, digitalisation, and agitation got me thinking: in our capitalist, truly being social actually requires us not a chronic lack of housing have all sped up consumerist society, dominated by only to save time, but to spend it, invest it, transience and transformed communities technology and products and things that even suspend it – through pause, reflection faster than ever before, leaving people are supposed to make life more efficient, and interaction with others. feeling left out or left behind. we’ve somehow forgotten what’s important. The reduction of that human interaction The things that matter to people are All morning, while I’d been on a bus, in our everyday lives is killing us. Loneliness less accessible. Chasing abstract growth passed through a station with hundreds is as bad for people’s health as smoking 15 over sustainable meaning has created of people, collected a ticket and sat on a cigarettes a day. It brings on strokes, heart a situation in which work is plentiful but train, I’d yet to speak to a single person. attacks, dementia and premature death. casual and livelihoods insecure. Football That’s the norm for many of us day to One million people over the age of 65 clubs have commodified their value built day. Amid the economics of big business, in the UK feel chronically lonely most or all on community and sold it at a high price to big government, and big charity, we now of the time. Seventeen percent see friends fans on the other side of the world, leaving buy our coffee from machines and pay or family less than once a month; eleven many feeling locked out. Music is more for groceries at self-service checkouts. percent less than once a week. Young ubiquitous than ever, but the subsequent Many people tap their travel cards to people between the ages of 21 and 35 are business model has made the format a disc without looking up from their the second loneliest age group. At 35, men disposable and limited its creation to a phones to say “hello” or “thank you” to feel more isolated than at any other time in smaller pool than ever. The ‘fourth industrial the driver. Music, that most sharable of their lives and suicide is the biggest killer of revolution’ has already partially occurred, sounds, is consumed in solitude through men under the age of 45. One in five young and we haven’t yet figured out how to headphones. Our interaction with our mothers feels lonely “always”. And one in four govern our lives or our society in a way that banks, our councils, our taxi drivers, occur girls are depressed by the time they turn 14. meets that drastic change. through apps and automated mazes: press It’s narrowing our shared experience So, we need new ideas, and a new one to listen to Greensleeves, press two with, and understanding of, one another focus not just on making life liveable or to be put through to someone on the too. The generations are dividing. efficient, but on making life worth living – other side of the planet, press three to be Communities that live side by side interact richer for the majority and more grounded entered into a telephonic abyss. too infrequently, leading to the type of in community and relationships. And that So much of the ‘progress’ of political divergences so evident in the new approach needs to be consistent technology and speed in this political national and international elections of the across the whole of government and economy has conversely eliminated so past three years. Trust in institutions – civil society. much of what makes us human: that former pillars of society, from the media to Welfare needs reform, but in a slow, SOME SOLUTIONS 13

>> outcomes-based way – or, put another manage their physical and mental health a huge new housing investment, councils way, it needs to dismantle the poverty of through positive relationships and regular should retain some stock specifically for income, opportunity, and connection by exercise, and how to bounce back from people who have been to school in that investing in prevention rather than cure. We life’s inevitable setbacks. area and want to remain part of the fabric need a ‘connecting state’ that moves away We need a criminal justice approach that of community, to build a family and put from payments for everyone with children, doesn’t spend billions making hardened down roots. In business, this would be and housing top-ups which further inflate criminals of minor offenders through prison called retention and it’s one of the most the market, in favour of a state which helps and sentencing systems which perpetuate important aspects of success – in civic life, people to build networks that make them addiction or extremism. Instead, we need it’s called community. resilient, rather than reliant. to help people to rehabilitate by building None of this hinges on Brexit. Indeed, if power in their lives through community and the Government thinks it can fix the crisis “ So much of the ‘progress’ local support networks. of disconnection in our connected age of technology and speed We need the to merely by negotiating a legal, ‘transactional’ in this political economy do what it says on the tin – to keep people Brexit, it will be severely disappointed and has conversely eliminated healthy rather than just treating people will ultimately fail. Brexit was a symptom, so much of what makes when they’re sick – through a wholesale not a cause, of our wider malaise and the us human: that instinct for adoption of the culture of prevention. fragmenting of communities. play, humour, personality, That means expanding social signposting, So, at this critical juncture in our social, even silliness and flirtation, helping people to stay well (for example political, and economic history, we need and ultimately connection through subsidised gym membership) and imaginative ideas to tackle specific long with others.” a massive re-prioritisation of mental health brewing injustices. Government should through support for people to connect to step back, find some of that pause and We need an education system and their communities and themselves. reflection we all need, and return to the national curriculum that doesn’t just teach On housing, we need to build mixed, founding principles in Theresa May’s algebra and trigonometry and Shakespeare ‘sociable’ developments that provide the speech on the steps of Number 10 two and games once a week, but that teaches public space for people to interact. And we years ago – that “mission to make Britain people how to build networks, how to need to build in some rootedness too. After a country that works for everyone”. SOME SOLUTIONS 14

Bettina Friedrich is a Money on the mind research associate at University College London

Raising awareness is a good start, says Bettina Friedrich, but mental health services need proper funding

he profile of mental health has , many people weren’t convinced mental health problems as well as those been raised significantly in the by his excuse. close to them. Research has shown that T past few years, partly due to fear of being labelled and stigmatised campaigning from mental health charities “ Those in charge of affects people’s willingness to disclose and partly due to high-profile people – the mental healthcare their illness and seek treatment, so it is from Prince Harry to Professor Green system should be held laudable that ignorance about the causes – speaking publicly and candidly about accountable and not be of mental ill health and treatment options their own mental health problems. All of allowed to hide behind are being discussed. this should be welcomed as it removes the sometimes-nebulous But the debate around awareness the stigma around mental health and awareness debate.” shouldn’t cover up the very serious encourages people who are suffering in problems mental health services face. silence to seek help. The awareness movement has also, It is all very well to tell people that it is at times, been hijacked by politicians. okay to have a mental health problem “ It is all very well to tell They publicly declare their commitment and that they should seek the necessary people that it is okay to raising awareness – drawing plaudits treatment, but if the healthcare system to have a mental health for their sensitivity and bravery – while isn’t functioning as it should, awareness problem and that they simultaneously under-investing in mental campaigns ring hollow. should seek the necessary health services. treatment, but if the Late last year, it was revealed that “ Politicians publicly healthcare system isn’t half of all Clinical Commissioning declare their commitment functioning as it should, Groups – NHS bodies responsible for to raiding awareness – awareness campaigns ring commissioning healthcare services for drawing plaudits for their hollow.” their local area – are not planning on sensitivity and bravery spending more on mental health services – while simultaneously However, the awareness movement this financial year, despite a huge under-investing in mental is not without its pitfalls. It is sometimes increase in demand for these services. health services.” co-opted by people to advance their own Speaking to , Labour MP agenda, such as increasing a fanbase or said: “Theresa May claims Public education on mental health grabbing media attention. to be committed to improving mental problems, and on how to find help, YouTube celebrity, Logan Paul, caused health, but her cuts are harming mental needs to go hand-in-hand with making outrage last year when he uploaded a health services.” improvements to mental health services. video of a dead person in Aokigahara A few months earlier, a BBC Radio 5 Those in charge of the mental forest in Japan – a place known to be Live investigation found that, out of 39 healthcare system should be held a frequent site for suicides. The video mental health trusts that provided figures accountable and not be allowed to was viewed more than nine million times for their crisis teams, 27 had seen their hide behind the sometimes-nebulous before Paul took it down. The YouTube workload massively increase “but without awareness debate. People with mental ‘vlogger’ apologised, saying he “intended a comparable rise in funding”. health problems not only need public to raise awareness for suicide and suicide Mental health stigma is of course very awareness and understanding, but a prevention”. Judging by the response on real, affecting the lives of people with functioning mental health service. SOME SOLUTIONS 15

Tim Loughton is the A mindful moment MP for and co-chair of the APPG on mindfulness Tim Loughton MP discusses how mindfulness has helped him and others

“ P takes bath” is apparently of my ablution time for some mindfulness antidepressants have risen by 500% hot news, at least if you are a meditation. For me the power shower just and are used for ever younger children. Mjournalist scrabbling round for doesn’t cut it, fending off the water jets at The economy suffers £950 billion in a front page headline at . MP all angles adds to my stress levels. lost earnings down to depression never takes bath or shower might be more The UK Parliament has been a leader each year and it is the major cause of newsworthy. in promoting the use of mindfulness not workplace absences. Anything that Not that you would know it but the just in politics, or indeed in the bath, but is easy to administer and available to trigger for the story was a conference I co- all across society. Over 170 MPs and everyone at low cost has to be a useful hosted at Westminster last Autumn which members of the Lords from all parties addition to the armoury in dealing with brought together 20 MPs from over 15 have now undertaken a mindfulness this epidemic. countries to promote mindfulness as one of course which is available each week. the ways we can help tackle the epidemic We have also been invited to other “ Mindfulness is not a of mental illness in the West. parliaments to pass on the good news to panacea but it certainly We were joined by the Godfather of other parliamentarians. I co-chair the All can help in the fight Mindfulness, the American Professor Party Parliamentary Group on Mindfulness against the epidemic John Kabat-Zinn, who has promoted with Labour MP Chris Ruane whose of mental illness in the the practice of mindfulness in schools, constant heckling and interruptions in western world.” workplaces, prisons and as an alternative the Commons chamber were certainly to prescription drugs in the health service. tempered after he first went on one of Schools are increasingly adopting Getting 20 MPs from a panoply of different the courses and promoted the benefits mindfulness. It has been shown to parties and different countries in the to colleagues. improve focus and concentration and same room agreeing with each other and Mindfulness is not a panacea but it help lift results and it has the advantage prepared to stay silent whilst practicing certainly can help in the fight against the of being popular and non-stigmatising mindfulness is quite a tall order. epidemic of mental illness in the western unlike other mental illness approaches. One of the joys of mindfulness is that it world. One in four of us will suffer a mental Companies have latched on to it and one can be done by anyone, anytime, anyplace. illness at some stage in our lives. One in six company told us that since introducing These days most of us have stressful lives women suffers from some form of perinatal mindfulness classes for all their employees lived at 100mph but just taking a few mental illness and the impact on a child of sickness absenteeism has fallen 71% and minutes out to focus on the here and now poor attachment in those crucial early years productivity improved. We also heard from and the things around you can set you up can be lifelong. Over 850,000 children and a career criminal who had been in and out well for the day. You can do it in a quiet young people now have a mental health of jail for 20 years immune to all sorts of corner during your lunch break, on the bus, problem and those are just the ones we rehabilitation programmes until he took up in your favourite armchair or in my case in know about. mindfulness which is the one thing to have the bath. The Prime Minister has highlighted kept him on the straight and narrow. I tend to get up early and plunge myself this as a major challenge and whilst a Mindfulness won’t solve everything but into my bath soon after 6am where I spend Mental Health Bill is promised, resources for many with low level mental illness and up to an hour reading through papers and are still too widely stretched and scarce depression it can help. If combining it with articles for meetings coming up in the professionals over-committed. Worryingly, a bath floats your boat then great, but it’s day ahead, but I also reserve a little part in the last 20 years prescriptions for not compulsory. SOME SOLUTIONS 16

Helen Undy is the Down and in debt Director of Money and Mental Health Policy Institute Helen Undy explains the link between mental health and problem debt

eople with mental health problems know how to support employees who might letters or online application forms. These are three times as likely to be in be struggling. difficulties not only cause psychological P problem debt. These financial The second problem, increased harm, but they leave people in escalating difficulties in turn exacerbate mental health personal spending, is a hard one for debt and without appropriate services to conditions, making recovery harder. All political action – but there is great meet their needs. this causes significant harm to the people potential for firms to step in and help. This area is one the Government involved as well as increased demand and We’ve been working with multiple banks has started to view as a priority, with costs for the health service. and other financial firms to support the the appointment of Guy Opperman MP So, it’s in everyone’s interests to tackle introduction of tools such as voluntary as Minister for Financial Inclusion last year this link, to make sure that a diagnosis of spending controls, budgeting help or and some exciting commitments included a mental health problem does not mean a improved third party access to accounts the Consumer Green Paper. This paper life in financial difficulty – and that problem so that people can stay in control of their includes a proposal that regulators should debt does not trigger a need for mental spending in an episode of acute poor develop minimum standards for people with health services. But working out how to mental health. mental health problems and other similar tackle it, and who should do it, can be conditions, to drive up performance across complicated. “ Our research found that services like banking, energy and telecoms. Our research at the Money and Mental four in 10 people with It’s a smart move, and one that we are Health Policy Institute has uncovered three mental health problems supporting by developing more detailed key ways in which mental health problems have severe anxiety standards at a firm level; supporting cause financial difficulty. dealing with essential individual companies to improve their First, reduced or sustained low income services like banks accessibility to people with mental health due to periods off sick, lack of career or energy companies, problems, getting ahead of what will be progression or insecure employment. experiencing symptoms required by regulators and, we hope, going Second, increased spending due such as shaking, above and beyond to meet the needs of to costs associated with poor health breathlessness and this group. and reduced impulse control leading to sweating.” It is good to see the Government taking impulsive or uncontrolled spending. the issue of financial capability seriously. Third, reduced financial capability, Finally, financial capability is an But, as ever with a beast as big as a making it harder to choose, use and pay issue that cuts right across every layer government, the dots have not yet been for essential services such as banking or of the economy, from government and quite joined up. The next step must be to energy and resulting in higher costs. regulation, down to individual firms. Our consider how these standards for essential In tackling the first, low income, there is research found that four in 10 people services firms might apply to government a role both for government and employers; with mental health problems have services themselves. Protecting people helping people to stay in work where that is severe anxiety dealing with essential from the income shocks caused by poor possible – and reducing the income shock services like banks or energy companies, mental health means ensuring that the where it’s not. This means making sure experiencing symptoms such as shaking, benefits system is also accessible to sick pay and the wider benefits system breathlessness and sweating. Many people with mental health problems who are working for people with mental health people reported panic attacks or suicidal may struggle with the phone, post or problems, as well as ensuring workplaces feelings as a result of telephone calls, complicated paperwork. Recent SOME SOLUTIONS 17

>> figures from the National Audit Office problems struggle to use the phone, this is wide range of people and organisations. have shown that only half of all claimants a straightforward design flaw that needs to But it’s not rocket science, and as our were able to manage a Universal Credit be tackled. research develops an understanding of application on their own, and help with So yes, the link between money the pathways between the two, it’s very making applications is only available on the and mental health problems is clear that there is still plenty of low- telephone. Given our research has found complicated, and yes tackling it must hanging fruit when it comes to practical that half of people with mental health be a responsibility shared between a changes that would help.

Karen Snedker is an Rethinking justice academic visitor at the

The UK needs a separate justice system for people suffering mental illness, argues Karen Snedker

evere mental illness is on the rise in broader ‘mental disorder’ categorisation In England and Wales, problem-solving the UK, and an increasing number are undoubtedly higher. courts have emerged in many areas, notably Sof people with mental illness are There are some safeguards. The Crown drug courts, but not in mental health. There behind bars and supported by inadequate Prosecution Service may discontinue the are no concrete plans to move forward with mental health services. This is a situation prosecution in cases of minor offences, the introduction of specialist mental health that could be improved by the introduction especially if there is past evidence courts, despite two year-long pilot studies of courts specifically geared for hearing of a hospital order. Or if questions of in England. Expansion of existing liaison cases involving defendants with mental fitness (for the trial process or to plead) and diversion services are not currently health issues. are raised, it triggers a psychiatric being incorporated into a mental health In England, there are more than 31,000 assessment. This can lead to a hospital court model. people with mental health problems order, supervision order or, in rare cases, in prison. In one sample of prisons in absolute discharge. If remanded to hospital “ In the UK – especially England and Wales, more than one third for treatment, the majority respond to in England and Wales – reported significant symptoms of anxiety or treatment and the trial process continues. problem-solving courts depression and ten percent were identified Efforts are increasing to provide have emerged in many as having a psychotic disorder. more mental health services throughout areas, notably drug The neglect and mistreatment of the court process – but not under courts, but not in defendants with mental health issues a specialist court model. Mental mental health.” raises human rights concerns. health courts, on the other hand, treat The prevalence rate of defendants with defendants with mental illness as a special Efforts need to be redoubled. I have serious mental illness coming before UK population. In the US, for example, more shown that mental health courts work to courts is not well known. As of 2006, one than 300 mental health courts have now reduce reoffending, enhance public safety study estimates that slightly more than been established as a part of a broader and improve the wellbeing of individuals one percent of defendants appearing problem-solving court movement. Drug with mental illness. Mental health courts at magistrates’ courts were identified courts were at the forefront of this trend. place more emphasis on the therapeutic as having a serious mental illness. The Developed in the late 1980s, these and are less adversarial than traditional percentage rose dramatically to almost specialty jurisdiction courts attempt to criminal justice. seven percent for those held in custody. get at the underlying problems related to Such courts often have a staff that The numbers for those falling under the criminal behaviour. include both traditional positions (judge, SOME SOLUTIONS 18

>> attorney, probation officer) and newer re-arrested within the two years after in me”. Shima highlighted the supportive social positions (social worker, neutral court exit. If you only count those people team and transformative power of mental court liaison). One judge I interviewed who complete the court programme, the health courts: “It made me believe that I described the court as “a place where it percentage goes up. don’t need to get in trouble no more. I am was possible to promote wellness and fresh now”. recovery”. Another judge described the “ The neglect and Mental health courts can reduce stigma shifting thought processes involved: mistreatment of and lead to a renewed identity. “You are not seeing a criminal who is defendants with mental Now is an ideal time to consider the mentally ill. You are seeing a mentally ill health issues raises human UK’s criminal justice policy concerning person who is engaging in criminogenic rights concerns.” defendants with mental illness: attitudes behaviour.” towards mental illness are becoming more In mental health courts, clients are The goals of these courts go beyond tolerant, opening up the way for public treated holistically, with individually- reducing reoffending rates – they aim to support for mental health courts. tailored plans combining community-based enhance the stability and quality of life of Meanwhile, the policy of austerity in treatment, housing and social support. clients. “You should help people be in a Europe and the UK is associated with Once a defendant has an eligible diagnosis better position than they were when they weakening (mental) health apparatuses (such as depression or schizophrenia) and came in”, suggested one prosecutor I and less generous welfare benefits and are perceived as amenable to treatment, interviewed. available social services. This is not to ‘clients’ or ‘participants’ (as opposed to Of the seven clients I interviewed mention that people with severe mental ‘defendants’) must volunteer to participate and observed in court, it was the unique illness often suffer from other risk factors in a mental health court. Opting-in requires approach that led to (some degree of) – homelessness and substance abuse agreeing to a set of conditions for a period success. For Monique, support from the – which mental health courts are better (which varies but is typically around two team was critical: “During the time I was equipped to address than traditional years) with frequent probation and judicial on probation, the monitoring of my life courts. reviews. and what I was doing was good for me While mental health courts can improve In exchange, clients are offered a because it kept me on the straight and the lives of clients, they do not work for all reduced sentence or dismissal of criminal narrow”, she told me. Meanwhile, the court clients. Importantly, they cannot ameliorate charges, as well as access to additional helped Jennifer to “build healthy habits” the problems in the criminal justice system resources. When they do not comply with and Isaiah, another client, to “get the tools or the welfare state. Solutions to managing court expectations, ‘creative’ responses he needs”. Robert credited his success mental illness largely occur outside the are favoured. Jail is seen as a ‘last resort’. in court and in turning his life around to criminal justice system. But efforts within Along with other studies, my research the supportive housing he gained through the criminal justice system, such as the shows that there is a significant reduction the court – after being homeless and mental health court, can alleviate some in reoffending rates. In one US mental suffering from alcoholism – along with his problems and represent an important step health court, 47% of clients had not been probation officer, who “saw some hope forward.

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Tracey Crouch is Minister Loneliness doesn’t discriminate for Loneliness and MP for Chatham and Aylesford

Tracey Crouch MP talks about her new role as Minister for Loneliness

oneliness holds no prejudice. Earlier this year, I visited Batley and Spen be launched later this year. It can affect anyone at any time. and met young carers, new mums and By reaching out across political divides, L One in ten 16 to 24 year olds say men who told me that local organisations and collaborating with businesses, they often or always feel lonely, according have saved their lives by making them feel charities and community groups, we will to official statistics. Half of parents say welcome in the community. leave no stone unturned in our quest to they struggle with loneliness, with nine out Work is now well underway to build tackle loneliness in society. of ten new mums reporting feeling alone. upon this spirit. I have collaborated with I have been open and honest that the Life-changing moments can also the Commission and across UK’s loneliness problem will not be solved leave people feeling isolated, whether Whitehall to ensure we have a supportive overnight. I am committed to working with it’s moving away from home, caring for a network in place that can take this everyone who has an interest and am relative, or losing a loved one. important work forward. open to ideas and opinions. Social isolation doesn’t just affect A few months ago, I announced a The late Jo Cox instigated the fight people’s physical and mental health; dedicated £20 million that will help against loneliness. She wanted people communities and wider society suffer communities find ways to reconnect to have lives that were not overwhelmed when people feel disconnected or alone. through local and national programmes by feelings of isolation. I am privileged The Jo Cox Commission’s report – that bring people together, improve lives to take over her excellent work, and will led by MP and Seema and create a shared society for the future. work tirelessly to build stronger and Kennedy MP – uncovered the scale of But this is just the start. The funding better connected communities and the problem and highlighted that we need will be complemented by the UK’s first reduce the terrible damage done by a long-term strategy if we are to reduce major strategy to tackle loneliness, set to loneliness. the number of people who feel alone – a figure that currently stands at an estimated nine million in the UK.

“ Life-changing moments can also leave people Hotting up: Strengthening the Climate feeling isolated, whether Change Act ten years on it’s moving away from Philip Box and Sam Hall home, caring for a Ten years ago, the UK passed the world’s relative, or losing a first Climate Change Act that inspired loved one.” other countries to adopt similar climate laws. Following the ratification of the Paris Agreement in 2015, the UK has another This year, I have met a range of opportunity to lead internationally with its people who have expressed feelings of climate change policies once again. This social isolation, as well as organisations report sets out the scientific, technological, throughout the country that are working to legal, and political case for deeper tackle loneliness. decarbonisation of the UK economy in the I’ve also met people who have told me decades ahead. great stories of kindness and support. 20

The Centre Write interview: Sam Gyimah MP

Olivia Utley interviews Sam Gyimah MP about young people, universities and mental health

“ Universities should be acting ‘in loco parentis’, but this doesn’t mean infantilising students – it is about ensuring they have the right services available to them.” BRIGHT BLUE POLITICS 21

What is it about university life that you think exacerbates mental health problems?

From what students have told me on my ‘Sam on Campus’ tour, it seems that there are lots of factors that can exacerbate mental health problems at university. One student who really struggled with anxiety and depression in their first year told me that it was the first time they were living away from home and were expected to fulfil completely independent study – so they were worried about fitting in, about getting their work done on time and even finding a partner. I think this is one of the problems with finding the right approach to giving students the mental health support they need – so many different factors could be at play. Because of this, I’m trying out a whole package of new measures. Most recently, I’ve announced a ‘University Mental Health Charter’ – which will see the development of new standards to promote student and staff mental health and wellbeing – and have set up a -led working group into the transition students face when going to university. Right now, I’m exploring whether an opt-in requirement for universities could be considered, so they could have permission to share information on student mental health with parents or a trusted person.

Should university staff be responsible for students’ pastoral care?

I think the crux of this issue is that some traditional vice-chancellors see the prime purpose of their university as training of the mind. This is no longer the case. In fact, it’s about so much more. The pastoral care for students has to be there as well for a university to fulfil its full purpose. Universities should be acting ‘in loco parentis’, but this doesn’t mean infantilising students – it is about ensuring they have the right services available to them. This is in part why I convened a mental health summit to on how universities can better provide this pastoral care – which includes mental health support – for students.

You think that universities should be more directly accountable to students, but your critics think that you’re turning higher education into a commodity. What would you say to them?

A big issue for me, and for the students I have spoken to and heard from via email, is value for money. I want to be clear – I don’t see the value of a university education solely hanging on what salary you can expect from a future job. University should be an exciting, enriching stage in a young person’s life and they should pursue their passions. For many, higher education is a rite of passage to adulthood. And that is a good thing. So yes, we don’t want to narrow the debate when we consider the value of higher education. But that doesn’t absolve us from the need to tackle head-on the legitimate questions posed to the sector. Students have spoken of their concerns with the number of contact hours they have, the facilities they have access to, the quality of the teaching they receive. I think it is fair for a student who is investing in their future to expect the university they choose to do right by them. The system of fees and loans that has allowed us to remove student number controls and create this greater opportunity has also empowered students and raised their expectations. This means that universities and the value that they provide to their students and to society at large is coming under greater scrutiny than ever before. In my first speech at the establishment of the new universities regulator, the Office for Students (OfS), I called on them to put a “laser-like focus on students”. Yes, the university BRIGHT BLUE POLITICS 22

>> sector is experiencing unprecedented levels of scrutiny, be the most talented pupil with the world at your feet, but if but the launch of the OfS signifies a new age, ‘the age of the you are not sure how to answer interview questions or know student’, and I want the sector to embrace this new era and about the intricacies of an Oxbridge interview then you might it means putting student interests at the centre of everything be overlooked. This way we can draw talent from the widest universities and the OfS do. But of course, our higher education possible pool, which will only serve to strengthen our institutions system is one of our nation’s greatest assets. The UK is a and help students from all backgrounds feel as though they can world-leading destination for education, study and research, achieve anything. and we want this to continue. You only need to look our education exports data, which includes international study, and just how much it generates for the UK economy – estimates show this to be £19.3 billion, an increase of 19% “ In the same way that since 2010. This isn’t a case of focusing on students or the people who are aged value of universities – both have equal importance and both 45-60 have varied will continue to have my focus. concerns and interests, A lot of people are saying that this generation of students is turning its back on free speech. Is that the case? And if so too do people who so, why? are aged 18-34 – and

I disagree that students are turning their back on free speech. we shouldn’t make the Through my tour of campuses, it became increasingly apparent mistake of believing that to me that free speech is one of the biggest issues they care about. I’ve also received countless emails and letters from they all think as one.” students saying that free speech on their campus is being threatened or impeded – suggesting that the vast majority of Which three issues do you think are the most important to students consider it as important as ever. For this reason, it’s 18-34 year olds? something I’m very interested in. There are currently a dizzying variety of rules with the potential to act as a brake on lawful free What I’ve found interesting from lots of the students I have spoken speech on campus. The current landscape for students and to on my ‘Sam on Campus’ tour and at events I have been to, is universities is murky, with numerous pieces of disjointed sector that not all young people, or in this case 18-34 year olds, think the guidance out there. same or have the same priorities. I actually asked your question in a video I did for my visit to Manchester Metropolitan University What policies would you like to see in place to improve and I got answers as diverse as sustainability and austerity to diversity in universities? Brexit and supporting student nurses. It just goes to show that in the same way that people who are aged 45-60 have varied Diversity on our campuses is one of the things that make our concerns and interests, so too do people who are aged 18-34 universities great, but there is more that needs to be done and and we shouldn’t make the mistake of believing that they all think it is something I am looking to address after summer. To really as one. But what I can say have been consistent themes have get to the heart of the disadvantage gap at our universities, we been mental health, housing and Brexit. must change the rules of the game and swing them favourably towards the young people who need the most support. It is Finally, who would you like to see as the next mayor unacceptable that those from the most advantaged backgrounds of London? are up to six times more likely to go to our top universities. Yes, universities have a role to play in this, but issues run deep – and Definitely a Conservative! I think we are lucky as we have a very there is also a clear role to play for parents in supporting their talented candidate list this year with each candidate caring deeply children through school and into university. One approach is to about the issues facing Londoners and trying to sort out the make universities reach out to potential students much earlier problems that Sadiq Khan has been unable to, from knife crime and teach them the rules of the game when it comes to applying and youth violence to air quality and transport. We need a new to elite universities like, say, Oxford or Cambridge. You might mayor with fresh ideas. BRIGHT BLUE POLITICS 23

James Dobson is a Reasearch update Senior Researcher at Bright Blue

James Dobson delivers an update on Bright Blue’s research programme

ince the start of this year, the environment not only threatens the flora We followed this report with a half- Government has given significant and fauna for which we are custodians, day Conservatism, human rights and Sfocus to the future of Britain’s but the future prosperity of communities discrimination conference in June. The environment not least because of Bright around the world. conference included a keynote speech Blue polling showing its importance to In the report, we argued that greater from the then Minister for Human Rights Dr younger voters. The Prime Minister has focus and funding for global nature Phillip Lee MP. The conference explored announced plans to introduce the first conservation through the UK’s international centre-right approaches to tackling all Environment Bill since 1995, while the aid budget, particularly through charismatic forms of discrimination in education, Secretary of State for the Environment has UK branded projects and programmes, employment and wider society, and ways announced further clampdowns on single- would build public support for international of strengthening human rights overseas use plastics. aid while safeguarding the world’s nature. as part of the Government’s post-Brexit Bright Blue’s energy and environment In the coming months, we will publish ‘Global Britain’ strategy. team has continued to influence the a new report on the sources of and trends Under our immigration and integration Government in these areas through several in air pollution in the UK and assessing the theme, we will shortly be publishing a new new reports. In May, we celebrated the different legislative options for improving report that maps levels of trust in different ten-year anniversary of the Climate Change the legal protections from air pollution. parts of England. The report will also Act with a new report, Hotting up. The While our conservation project will produce consider how immigration affects levels of report argued that Britain, once again, has its second output, an essay collection, in social integration in England. an opportunity to lead the world through its which leading conservationists and centre- Our social reform research programme climate change policies. right policymakers analyse the challenges will release a new report examining the It set out the scientific, technological, to conservation and generate innovative experiences of claimants on universal credit legal, and political case for deeper policy ideas to address them. and review options for reform. decarbonisation of the UK economy in the Bright Blue’s human rights and The last three months of British politics decades ahead. It proposed new policies to discrimination team have continued their have, inevitably, been dominated by the enable this, including the UK strengthening efforts to influence the Prime Minister’s looming prospect of Britain’s withdrawal the Climate Change Act and adopting a ‘burning injustices’ agenda a few months from the European Union. But Bright Blue’s new legal net-zero emissions target. ago, we published an essay collection, research team have continued to assiduously After, in our second report of the authored by prominent backbenchers pursue the full range of challenges facing spring, we urged the Government to from all the UK’s main national political the UK. With many more exciting research lead international efforts to conserve parties, which set out some of Britain’s projects coming up, we will continue global nature. The natural world is facing most prominent ‘burning injustices’, and to develop and champion new liberal unparalleled threats. The fragility of the provided solutions to help address them. conservative ideas in the months ahead.

The Tamworth Prize The Tamworth Prize is our annual essay competition in this magazine. He or she will also receive a for young people. The Prize is named after the week’s work experience with us, and a year’s free Tamworth Manifesto which Sir Robert Peel membership. published in 1834. This essay should be 1,000 words or less. The Prize is open to anyone aged 21 or under Email your entry to [email protected]. The and the winner will have his/her entry published deadline for entries is Friday 31st August, 2018. BRIGHT BLUE POLITICS 24

Eamonn Ives is a Take a walk on the wild side researcher at Bright Blue

Eamonn Ives explores the benefits of ‘green prescriptions’

n early July, the National Health Service sharing of data. And, at a more basic budget which government currently celebrated its seventieth birthday. Its level, doctors are now looking at new provides to farmers, land managers, and I present was a £20 billion injection of treatments which will both improve patient land owners could be spent after we leave cash by 2023-24. This amounts to an care and save money. the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). annual spending increase of 3.4% – far One such approach is what has come higher than the 2.2% which the Labour to be known as ‘green prescribing’. This, “ Studies continue to Party pledged in its 2017 General in essence, means medical professionals show how simply Election manifesto. recommending to patients that connecting exercising outdoors Inevitably, the birthday present has with nature can be an effective way of rather than inside a gym provoked controversy. On the one hand, tackling both mental and physical illness. can hugely improve supporters of the NHS claim that the In practice, this could involve cultivating general wellbeing.” extra cash is but a sticking plaster, a garden, for example, to help reduce insufficient to meet the growing demands stress- induced problems, or exercising Our idea for a market-based of an ageing population, and the costs more in local green spaces to improve commissioning scheme for ecosystems of new technology and medicine. The fitness. services could involve the NHS as a independent Health Foundation charity, Green prescriptions are gaining paying beneficiary of ecosystem services. for example, believes that a figure closer popularity in the UK, whilst in other The NHS, for example, might explore to four percent per year is a better countries such as New Zealand, and working directly alongside conservation estimate of what is required. On the parts of Australia and the US, they have organisations to provide nature parks, bird other hand, many have complained that already been in use for many years. More watching reserves or woodland habitats, this funding boost will inevitably have to and more scientific papers are being which patients could be encouraged to be paid for by any or all of the following: published spelling out the benefits which visit as part of their treatment plan. higher taxes, increased borrowing, or adopting green prescriptions can bring Green prescriptions will not suit raids on other government departments. to a range of health problems – from everybody. But early evidence suggests depression to high blood pressure, that for some people suffering from “ Green prescriptions will obesity and respiratory diseases. certain ailments, they could prove to be not suit everybody. But Meanwhile, other studies continue to both more effective and cheaper than early evidence suggests show how simply exercising outdoors other treatments. An attendant benefit that for some people rather than inside a gym can hugely of greater green prescribing could be suffering from certain improve general wellbeing. a shift towards the recognition of the ailments, they could prove Making it possible for people to put need to maintain access to Britain’s to be both more effective green prescriptions into practice, though, beautiful green spaces, which deliver and cheaper than other clearly requires plenty of easily accessible invaluable natural processes such as air treatments.” green spaces. In November of last year, purification, flood defence, and carbon Bright Blue explained how leaving the EU sequestration. What is clear is that there is a real will mean that policies and funding for As the NHS moves towards its next need for NHS reform and innovation. rural activity will be able to be brought milestone birthday, reforms such as the Slowly but surely, the NHS is beginning together in one framework. We set out use of innovative treatments should be to embrace greater digitisation and how we believed the at least £3.1 billion firmly in the minds of its directors. BRIGHT BLUE POLITICS 25

Gabriel Gavin was a Scientific solutions researcher at Bright Blue. He previously studied and worked in Gabriel Gavin discusses the importance of clinical research in neuroscience at University combatting mental illness College London

he discussion around mental Without understanding the way in which schools and universities, it is essential that health focuses predominantly on they work and the underlying neurological the UK can continue to attract scientists T acceptance, stigma reduction and causes of conditions like anxiety, from across the world as we leave the access to talking therapies. However, depression and schizophrenia, it is difficult European Union. Whilst in the past the there is an increasingly exciting world of to see how progress can be made. draw of the UK’s prestigious universities neuropsychiatric research that promises Although serendipitous discovery was enough to make it a desirable to profoundly change the ways in which of a revolutionary drug may be every destination for researchers, the rise of a we understand and treat mental health researcher’s dream, it is not an attractive new generation of institutes across Europe problems. Quality of life for future business model for pharmaceutical and in Asia makes the competition for top generations depends on our ability to companies. From 2010, some of the UK’s scientists fiercer. generate world-class research and to put largest drugs manufacturers, including There are already fears that science will a new science of the brain at the heart of GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca, be stifled unless freedom of movement is how we treat mental health. announced that they were discontinuing replaced by a system that recognises the The is undoubtedly the development of new psychiatric drugs, contributions international researchers a world leader in scientific research. The because of the high costs and slim chances make as we leave the EU. Moving entirely Nature Index, which tracks the origins of of success. This Government should look to a visa-only system after 2020 would high-quality scientific publications, ranks to incentivise firms to provide resources for significantly increase the numbers that the UK fourth globally for research output. academic researchers, who are in a unique need to be processed, and potentially act But our expenditure on research and position to conduct long-term research into as a barrier to scientists coming to the development has been consistently low, these conditions and their treatments. country. There should be a concerted effort accounting for only 1.6% of GDP in 2018, A good example of this working well to not only streamline applications from well behind the EU average of 2%. If our is in the trial for a new drug to treat scientists, but to actively attract them to position as an innovative research hub is Huntington’s Disease, a debilitating and the UK. to be preserved, we must look at how to progressive neurodegenerative condition. Applying science from universities redress this imbalance. Over a number of years, academic and laboratories to patients is a complex Collaborations between university researchers were able to elucidate the process, but one that has a profound researchers and commercial organisations genetic and cellular mechanisms of the potential to treat mental health conditions. offer a potential way to sustainably fund disease. Partnering with pharmaceutical However, the importance of translational projects that would otherwise not be companies to develop a drug, researchers and applied clinical research is often possible, particularly in the field of drug have recently completed an early trial that overlooked. Recent reports show that development. Virtually all of the available shows the intervention can offer profound NHS Trusts are increasingly diverting drugs to treat depression, schizophrenia benefits to Huntington’s sufferers. nurses away from clinical trials to meet and other mental health problems were Psychiatric disorders are more complex, staffing shortages elsewhere. Primarily led discovered by accident in the 1950s and but there is no reason these collaborations by drug companies looking to evaluate 60s. And progress in developing new, cannot provide similar insights into the potential of new drugs, their success better drugs to treat psychiatric disorders conditions. depends on support from the NHS. The has almost completely stalled since then. Getting funding right, however, is only Government should look to begin a new Many new drugs are simply tweaks on part of the equation. As well as seeking era of collaboration with industry by getting the formula of existing pharmaceuticals. to develop scientific talent through our this essential partnership right. BRIGHTTEA FOR BLUE TWO POLITICS 26

Olivia Utley is the Tea for two Editor of Centre Write and Communications with George Freeman MP Manager at Bright Blue

eorge Freeman MP is best known as the brains behind or centre-right, must recognise what is happening. That means the Big Tent Ideas Festival – a one-day political jamboree being uncompromisingly honest about our own failures, rigorous Gthe press has nicknamed ‘Tory ’. The inaugural in our analysis, clear in the proposed programme and ambitious, event last year was held at a farm in and sought to optimistic and generous in our ultimate goal. All around us are bring together a few hundred people from the “vanguard of the inspiring examples of renewal: by communities, companies, sports Conservative renewal cause” to brainstorm ideas for making the teams, families and individuals. It’s the stuff of sporting, personal or Tories more appealing and – though this was never quite made Hollywood legend that makes us cheer and cry. That’s the spirit I explicit – to save the country from socialist ruin under Jeremy want Big Tent to capture.” Corbyn MP. Against the backdrop of a parliament which is both literally and This year, as Freeman explains to me in his tiny, frenetic office in figurately falling apart, Freeman’s one-man mission to kick-start a the very corner of the sprawling parliamentary estate, he has even new conversation about what is needed for the grassroots renewal bigger plans. “Last year, I was Head of the Prime Minister’s Policy of mainstream politics seems wildly optimistic. But, strangely Unit – so I was a bit constrained in what I could do. This year, I’m enough, his earnest enthusiasm is infectious. Listening to him talk just a backbencher, which means I’m able to open the festival up cheerfully about Big Tent people, those “who don’t want to go to into something broader – and more exciting.” be a member of a political party, or go to a party conference, but And he’s already fizzing with energy at the prospect. “All of us do want to shape the debates that shape our lives”, I find myself who believe in mainstream politics, whether from the centre-left feeling a lot less cynical about British democracy.

“ All around us are inspiring examples of renewal: by communities, companies, sports teams, families and individuals. It’s the stuff of sporting, personal or Hollywood legend that makes us cheer and cry. That’s the spirit I want Big Tent to capture.”

And the young team around him clearly feel the same. Speaking to them after my tea with George, I learnt that they’re a mixture of Leavers and Remainers, Londoners and Norfolk dwellers (Freeman’s patch is North Norfolk) but they are united in their admiration of George’s energy, and whole-hearted belief that there’s a positive way to “do politics”. They work harder than parliamentary assistants I’ve ever met, but they all seem genuinely thrilled to be there. The second Big Tent Festival takes place on 8th September, and I for one will be going along. As George puts it “we don’t claim to have all the answers, but we hope to at least ask the right questions, in the right spirit.” And, at the very least – it’s a blessed relief hearing someone in Parliament sounding excited. Our parliamentary supporters

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Our Parliamentary Supporters endorse Bright Blue and its aim of strengthening and advancing liberal conservatism. They do not necessarily agree with all the policies and opinions we advocate. ARTS & BOOKS 28

ARTS & BOOKS

Exhibition: Oscar Rocklin is a Research Assistant Thomas Cole: Eden to empire at Bright Blue

he American psyche has been of translating Cooper’s conception of a unprecedented pressure from an shaped by the country’s great distinct American romantic character into environmentally thoughtless White T wildernesses. The latest exhibition epic visual form. House, there is no better moment to be at the National Gallery shines light on As well as featuring his most reacquainted with the American romantic the man who was one of the very first to celebrated work, The Oxbow, the tradition Cole pioneered. capture the defining American aesthetic of exhibition builds up to Cole’s study on The As Cole put it in his Essay on scale and awe on canvas. Course of Empire, a five-piece collection American Scenery, “nature has spread for Born in Lancashire in 1801 at the very charting the rise and fall of an empire us a rich and delightful banquet. Shall we beginning of the Industrial Revolution, swallowed by its own hubris. There is an turn from it? We are still in Eden”. In the Thomas Cole grew up in the heart of implication from the outset that Cole’s fullness of time, it may be no exaggeration cotton-country, scene of the violent reverence for wild, ancient places is to say that Cole’s work, born out of a Luddite backlash against mechanisation, fuelled by fear of man’s simultaneously very personal ardour and angst, may something he witnessed first-hand. Aged creative and destructive abilities – ultimately have inspired the protection of 17, Cole and his family emigrated to something which could be described as the American wilds about which he cared Philadelphia in search of a better life. He a grand ecologically-minded Luddism. so much. would ultimately move to New York, where As Roderick Nash noted, “wilderness he would base much of his work on the appealed to those bored or disgusted with nearby Catskill Mountains. man and his works.” It seems apparent As a self-taught artist, study visits to that Cole was deeply worried that his Britain and Italy were crucial in helping adopted home would befall the same to shape his visual identity. Cole’s fate as his country of birth, sacrificing European influences are clearly illustrated much of its wild beauty for the sake of the throughout the exhibition, which also industrial expansion being championed includes examples of Constable, Augustus under President Jackson. Wallis, Claude, Turner and Martin. Cole’s The display could have been further The National Gallery work fits in well, marrying the clarity of improved by a look at other American Constable, the elegance of Augustus artists outside of the Hudson River Wallis, the luminosity of Claude with the School, who would go on to reimagine his immensity and drama of Martin’s work. tradition in the latter part of the nineteenth Yet Cole’s pieces are fundamentally Century, to the same extent that it fleshes different from those of his European out Cole’s European inheritance. One counterparts. There is something such figure, Thomas Moran, would have uniquely ‘new world’ about the way he been a perfect fit. reaches for the sublime. Cooper’s The Moran’s vast and glowing landscapes The National Gallery Last of the Mohicans visibly translated of Yellowstone in particular are widely into Cole’s work, which often includes credited as having helped generate scenes of Native Americans set against support for the establishment of the Thomas Cole: Eden and Empire runs until his distinctively vast landscapes. It is national parks system. At a time when 7th October 2018 at The National Gallery, arguable that Cole’s true project was that the national parks are coming under London. ARTS & BOOKS 29

12 rules for life: An antidote to chaos by Jordan B. Peterson

Ryan Shorthouse is the multiple interpretations of whether and Director of Bright Blue why they are victims or not. This is, of course, very meticulous, but the repetition and sheer exhaustiveness of this process reveals, I think, an ongoing irritation with the intellectual laziness of others who make confident conclusions about people, including, no doubt, himself, without careful he renowned Canadian academic consideration of all possibilities and facts. and psychologist, Jordan Peterson, He is obsessed with biological and T is one of the most prominent and historical differences between men and polarising voices in modern cultural debate. women. Some of the studies and stories Some believe he is a bothersome and he cites are revealing, sometimes selective, obnoxious contrarian, providing intellectual but are littered throughout to exaggerate cover for reactionary, ‘alt-right’ views. the importance of gender for human Others think he is a breath of fresh air, activity. It feels as if he is fighting feminists calmly countering the ‘PC brigade’. throughout. The best way to come to a judgement Broadly, he is regurgitating stoicism, on something or somebody, of course, is reminding readers that suffering is random to find out for yourself, rather than simply and inevitable in life. At times, it reads like 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos, taking what other people say – especially a naff self-help book, with advice regularly Jordan B. Peterson; those from your own political or social related to the teachings of the Bible, to Penguin; Allen Lane Publishing (U.K.); ‘tribe’ – as given. So, with that in mind, I decorate it with more profundity than 448 pages (Hardback). dipped in and out of his bestselling book the point deserves: “Christ enjoins His Published 16 January 2018. for a few months. followers to place faith in God’s Heavenly Peterson, it strikes me, is genuinely Kingdom, and the truth. That’s a conscious – I think, absurdly – make both cat-lovers motivated by a desire to help people decision to presume the primary goodness and dog-lovers pay more attention in – especially young men – through the of Being. That’s an act of courage. Aim this chapter. Apparently, this is because difficulties they face in life. It is clear he has high, like Pinocchio’s Geppetto. Wish upon of findings from social psychology: that encountered much in his. Towards the end a star, and then act properly, in accordance people are more social towards people of the book, he reveals the deep frustration with that aim”. Yuck. in their own group and antisocial towards – at times hopelessness – he has faced Some of his twelve rules are good, people of other groups. Other than to dealing over the years with the arthritis his age-old truisms: ‘Tell the truth – or, at least, use several pages demonstrating his daughter, Mikhaila, was diagnosed with in don’t lie’, and ‘Stand up straight with your knowledge of this evidence, I am literally early childhood. shoulders back’. Others are just bizarre: lost to why this point is being made. And he has a habit, when describing ‘Pet a cat when you encounter one on the Peterson is regarded as a cogent and dilemmas experienced by patients and street’. He thinks he is being clever here, motivational speaker, but in his writing, he people he has met throughout the book, because the chapter is actually about regularly rambles. At one point, pages are of not offering conclusive diagnoses, but stroking dogs. He thinks this trick would dedicated to describing the brutal weather ARTS & BOOKS 30

>> of his childhood in small-town Alberta, Or the dangerous oversimplifications that articulates, Western society and thought with no point seemingly emerging from the emerge from ideological thinking, from all – originally descending from Christian convoluted story. His sharp intellect is both sides of the political spectrum. Or the fact thinking – emphasises the primacy of the a strength and weakness in a long book that in well-functioning societies, aptitude individual, of “the implicit transcendent like this: from time to time, he compellingly from intelligence and conscientiousness worth of each and every soul”. This means deconstructs received wisdom with rather than power relations between that, sometimes, liberals will have to be profound wisdom, but sometimes he is different social groups, as postmodernists courageous and find themselves in the guilty of over-interpreting, especially the promulgate, is the biggest determinant of unusual position of standing up against Bible and fairy tales, which means we get individual life outcomes. fashionable goals, if they are collective and lost in the weeds. This makes him controversial, but supersede individual rights. He speaks important and sometimes offers important lessons to liberals – There’s good and bad in this book, uncomfortable truths, however. Like on which, after all, he describes himself as; basically, as Jordan Peterson would indeed the importance of disciplining children. well, the English variety. As Peterson argue there is in all of us.

Television: Phillip Box is a Love island Researcher at Bright Blue

rom George Osborne to Lily Allen, microcosm of Westminster politics. disrupt a popular couple, which led to over there’s no denying that ITV’s hit The format allows you to identify 600 complainants. F show, Love Island, set tongues various individuals and their personal traits Much of what goes on is generally wagging. very quickly. Couples soon develop their excused as part-and-parcel of on-screen The premise, for those unfamiliar, own follower-factions on social media, fame, but recent events have thrown that involves a dozen Brits of both sexes, with the infamous Love Island hashtag assumption into question. flown to a villa in Spain. Here they must offering some witty-wisdom for the Former contestant Sophie Gradon choose another individual to ‘couple up’ morning commute. The programme’s most tragically took her own life, having with, perform a series of inane weekly endearing factor is that it does not take previously raised awareness about both challenges as a group, and survive the itself too seriously. It gives off a very-British anxiety and cyber bullying. Similarly, this perpetual threat of eviction via public vote. air, an awareness of its own shortcomings year’s contestant Niall left for mental health The generously-termed ‘challenges’ and disbelief in its own success. reasons. range from passing cocktail ingredients The show thrives on the love of gossip Love Island neatly encapsulates several mouth-to-mouth, to every re-imaging of spin and conversing about others. Audiences discussion themes around mental health, the bottle and snog-marry-avoid possible. both revel in the drama and revile it. from the bounds of internet civility to body But these are very much a side-show. Contestants can be treated as remote confidence. As efforts to address cyber- As with pretty much every successful objects for gossip, critique, and humiliation bullying and the effect of the internet on piece of popular culture, it is the ‘human one day, and cherished human-beings mental health more generally develop stories’ that pull in the punters. Who will worthy of solidarity the next. further, Love Island’s impact on the public choose who? Will X and Y stay together? Where to draw the line between debate will continue long beyond this Will X find out Y secretly kissed Z? In this entertainment and low-key emotional- year’s season. sense, Love Island can be understood torture however, remains a significant as a swimsuit-clad Elizabethan Court, a challenge. Producers were recently Love Island began on 4 June 2018 at 9pm Milgram social experiment, or a Majorcan lambasted for using a misleading video to on ITV2. It concluded on 30 July 2018. ARTS & BOOKS 31

Portia Berry-Kilby is a The Crossway research assistant by Guy Stagg at Bright Blue

s communities become increasing of saints, Stagg’s pilgrimage always has of Christianity with jarring recounts of secular, a debate persists as to the potential to overwhelm. It should suicidal thoughts, somehow all combined A whether religion helps or hinders come as no surprise perhaps, when, with into the effortless style of a novel. Even mental health. Arguments often contrast thousands of kilometres behind him and fewer travel books present a luring appeal the built-in community that accompanies hundreds more to go, Stagg feels it is of the cloistered existence. We learn religious practice with the potentially best to “forget about God for a while”. that Stagg’s pilgrimage is more than the exclusionary nature of the beliefs involved. distance he covered. Nuns are more than Guy Stagg, in his latest book The “ All too often, pop culture their habits. All in all, we are reminded Crossway, offers a fresh perspective. For berates religion for that there are more to things than meets some, the road to recovery lasts years; allegedly hateful teachings the eye. And, I like to think, the same goes others are lucky and the duration is short. and old-fashioned practices. for the role religion can play in setting us Stagg? His consisted of close to six Stagg rises above these on the road to recovery, whatever path thousand kilometres, ten countries, and stereotypes and presents that may take. enough clergy to form a Synod. us with his raw and real All too often, pop culture berates experience in which those religion for allegedly hateful teachings identifying as religious and old-fashioned practices. Stagg rises appear just as human as above these stereotypes and presents us the guy next door.” with his raw and real experience in which those identifying as religious appear just But this book never centred on God in as human as the guy next door. Of course, the first place. It is religious practice, and certain encounters prove challenging, not faith, with which Stagg enjoins. He to say the least. But on the whole, the debunks the myths that one has to be fully characters Stagg describes in The faithful in order to derive any benefit from Crossway are selfless and welcoming. religion. Partaking in the ancient religious By no means does Stagg set out practice of pilgrimage, Stagg learns to paint a pretty picture of the Roman of the power of solitude. He discovers Catholic Church. And to be honest, that monastic life is not an escape from that’s just as well, because he wouldn’t the world made possible by power of succeed. But he does approach all he institutionalised religion, but rather a meets with an open mind. And as a result, confrontation with the self. the image he creates of religion feels The Crossway boasts no predictable incredibly authentic: a diverse bundle of travel writer’s thesis. Arguably, the caricatures, united by a common love. pilgrimage does not transform Stagg, it At times, this love seems quite alien; at offers no obvious take-home, and little others, it is so infectious one wishes to in the way of a replicable vacation route The Crossway, Guy Stagg; stay on a part of the pilgrimage forever. (unless tear gas attacks, crypts, and Picador; Immersed along ancient trails, tracing sleeping rough is the new Malaga). Little 400 pages (Hardback). crusader paths, and recounting the lives travel writing infuses such a dense history Published 14 June 2018. Centre Write Summer 2018

Matters of the mind

Sam Gyimah MP | Nimco Ali | Tracey Crouch MP | Antoinette Sandbach MP