A Lewisham-based arts charity can help hundreds of south Londoners recover from severe and enduring mental health issues – thanks to new funding.
Arts Network, based in Eltham Road, Lee, provides studio space for people looking to develop their creative abilities and boost their mental health, supported by trained facilitators.
The charity, which also offers structured workshops on topics such as painting, crafts and photography, can expand its work thanks to a £91,266 grant from City Bridge Foundation – London’s biggest independent charity funder.
Giles Shilson, City Bridge Foundation chairman, said: “Getting creative and producing art can have a profound effect in helping people recover from even quite severe mental health conditions.
“We’re really pleased to be able to help Arts Network to build on the great work they’ve been delivering since the 1990s to support people to boost their mental health, confidence and self-esteem through art.”
People are typically referred to Arts Network via a mental health practitioner, but the charity also runs more informal sessions to which people can self-refer.
Kate Price, Arts Network CEO, said: “When people first come to us it can be a big change for them, particularly if they’re coming from a clinical setting, so we work really hard to make it a safe and welcoming space.
“The word network is in our name for a reason and one thing we really try to do is empower social inclusion. When people come here they get the chance to develop new friendships – everyone helps each other out.
“Doing something creative – especially using your hands and doing something tactile – is great for taking you out of the space you’re in and transporting your mind somewhere else.”
