Aim

We need funding to run arts & crafts workshops to support local families and adults to improve their wellbeing through creativity.

How we will make good use of your donations

All of the money we raise, through your generosity, will help us to run arts & crafts workshops for families and adults who have experienced loneliness; social isolation and a decline in mental health since the start of the pandemic.  Our charity is based in one of the most disadvantaged areas of the county, and many people would not otherwise be able to afford these workshops. It will pay for teachers and resources, helping local people to reintegrate into their community following lock-downs and restrictions brought about by the pandemic.

More than double the number of clients with a mental health condition

During that time, we've seen an increase in the percentage of beneficiaries declaring a mental health condition - from an average of 12% at the beginning of 2020 to 26% currently.  Depression and anxiety, in particular, have been experienced for the first time by many people and worsened in those with pre-existing conditions.  Loneliness and social isolation have played their part in having a negative impact on wellbeing as well as stress due to job insecurity; financial difficulties and losing loved ones to Covid 19.

Arts & Crafts supports wellbeing

We know how much people benefit from the calming effects of creativity and from connecting with others who have shared interests, even if that has been online, using Zoom.  Our workshops and courses provide opportunities for reflection and calm and we've received such positive responses from service users who say they don't know what they'd have done without us.

Heart-warming feedback

"I am able to pick up a pen or paintbrush when I feel really low and balance myself out mentally. It is kind of like a form of meditation, that creates a tranquil and content headspace. As a recovering addict & a person with disabilities & depression, art journalling has surprisingly been more consistently beneficial to me, than any support I've been given medically in the past.  I love sharing my work, I love meeting like minded people, I also love the work I have created. My confidence has grown. To say I am grateful for being involved with you all, is an understatement. Without your projects, people like me would continue to remain isolated, uninspired and not as hopeful." 

Demand has outstripped our funding

However, demand is now outstripping the funding we have available and we're finding it impossible to help all those who would like to access our arts & crafts courses such as mixed media, embroidery & applique, felting, crochet, knitting, art journalling and family art.

With your help and support, we hope to be able to reach more local people so that they, too, can feel the joy of learning new creative skills.

This project successfully funded on 21st September 2021