Winner

Liming with Gran

by Genomics England and University of Cambridge with support from Ketchum UK

Summary of work

Within London’s Black Caribbean community, it’s not just uncomfortable having tough family health conversations; it’s considered taboo. Silence is costing lives. 65% die from genetically linked conditions such as cancer and heart disease. To break down this stigma and get generations sharing vital health history, we studied Caribbean culture and discovered “liming”– the Western equivalent of “chilling and hanging out” over good conversation. Now, we just needed a fresh medium to make liming on family health feel natural. We found it in dominoes. A Caribbean game and tradition. But not just any dominoes. We created a bespoke set inspired by the aesthetics of the islands, and the first to feature scientifically derived questions engraved on the pieces to prompt health conversations as people played. A film launched our dominoes, starring a UK Caribbean grandma playing with her grandson – screened in local cinemas and transit, rail and shopping centres. Now, our game is in barber shops, community centres, cafes and churches, and used by health institutions. Our pilot reached 48% of London’s 300k Caribbean population, with 84% reporting the game has made them more likely to talk about their health. The UK’s National Health Service has now officially adopted the sets.

Judges’ comments

“Liming with Gran” had clear insights into an existing issue, with a strong step-wise approach, which was innovative and creative based on insights, while using physical and digital to create awareness within project constraints. It was great to see the impact from each engagement, that went across various stakeholder groups with clear metrics and thinking of scale beyond what was initially set out.