Arts 4 Wellbeing is a community arts and wellbeing day opportunity service which offers therapeutic artistic and creative opportunities for adults with mental health issues learning disabilities and/or physical disabilities, and those at risk of developing mental health issues or a feeling of isolation. We provide visual art sessions using materials and methods such as oils acrylics, water based paint drawing, sculpting, sketching printing and crafts. All sessions focus on unblocking the ability of individuals rather than using their disabilities as a barrier. Sessions are facilitated by qualified art tutors with back grounds in health and social care who support and enable vulnerable adults to explore their individual creativity and increase their self-esteem and sense of worth. Members are also encouraged to express their feelings and needs using performing arts such as drama, singing and dance. Life Skills classes where we focus on their ability not their disability. All members are given the opportunity to develop their talent and interest at a pace that is tailored to their ability. Sessions are person-centred and enable adults to participate in more in depth and artistic and creative activities as their confidence and ability develops. This year 2015 we were successful in winning £214,530 from Reaching Communities Big Lottery Fund. Our ‘One Community’ project will aim to reduce the risk of social isolation, hate crimes, bullying and harassment. In addition, we will ensure users are well informed about health issues and be given opportunities to learn life skills and improve their physical and emotional health through a range of preventative measures. The ‘One Community’ project will enhance the existing Arts 4 Wellbeing service user offer, increase flexibility and support the growing demand for therapeutic arts-based day services for vulnerable adults. With the help of the Big Lottery we have been able to employ 4 new members of staff for the three year funding. Everyone has the right to lead a rich and fulfilling life and to have choices about how they live. With the right support, advice, information and opportunities, vulnerable people can live more independently, participate more fully in society and be given the opportunity to reach their full potential.
