This summer, something remarkable unfolded in Drumchapel and the University of Glasgow. The Chance 2 Change mental health peer support group came together to co-write a novel in just one week through the White Water Writers programme. The result is ‘Chance to Change’ – a powerful, character-driven story that will be featured at the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival on 23rd October 2025, under the theme ‘Comfort & Disturb’.
About the Group
Led by peer facilitator Leanne McBride, Chance 2 Change supports people with long-term mental and physical health conditions. Members bring deep insight from lived experience, including the challenges of poverty, stigma and exclusion. The group has worked with the Scottish Government as an expert reference group on tackling health inequalities in primary care, contributing to the report, ‘A Chance to Change Scotland’.
“See me, listen, be honest,
help me understand
and remember
I am an expert
in your professional hands.”
Writing as Collective Action
The White Water Writers method enables groups to collaboratively author a novel in five days. For Chance 2 Change, this meant building a fictional world from scratch – developing characters, shaping plotlines and weaving stories. The process was intense, creative and affirming.
Visual Inquiry in Real Time
As the group wrote, I used Visual Inquiry techniques to sketch characters and scenes live, responding to the emerging narrative with expressive, intuitive drawings. These visuals helped the group imagine their story world and deepen their connection to the characters. Oscar Dickson then digitally rendered the illustrations for the main body and designed the striking front cover.
A Heartfelt Acknowledgement
When I saw the printed book, I was deeply touched by the beautiful acknowledgement from Leanne McBride:
“To Nic Dickson, the most incredible illustrator on the planet. Your time, talent and unwavering support for Chance2Change have given this book its vital heart, bringing it to life. Your enthusiasm and bright smile never failed to lift our spirits, keeping us motivated every step of the way. Your creativity and encouragement know no bounds and this book simply wouldn’t exist without you and the exceptionally talented Oscar.”
It was a moment of quiet pride. I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of this project through my work at the University of Glasgow, and to have helped bring the story to life through www.visualinquiry.co.uk.
Rosie!
A special shout out to Rosie, Caroline’s wee dog – whose presence brought warmth and calm to the creative space. Her quiet companionship reminded us of the importance of comfort in the midst of creative intensity!
Find the Book & Learn More
Read the book: Chance to Change on Amazon – https://amzn.eu/d/gy5jYio
Arts-Based Research in Action
This project is a testament to the power of arts-based research, community storytelling, and visual inquiry. It’s about more than just a book – it’s about connection, creativity, and change.
I can’t wait to see Chance to Change celebrated at the festival 👏👏
Footnote: I’ve also worked with Chance 2 Change on a separate project, drawing and writing an article published in the British Journal of General Practice. You can read it here: https://bjgp.org/content/75/752/126
