An exhibition of the group’s artwork will be in place at The Redwoods Centre in Shrewsbury until Monday 30 September 2024.
Jessica Kent, Arts for Health Programme Manager at MPFT, spoke about how taking part in creative activities helps participants:
“We’re delighted to be able to host these exhibitions and showcase the brilliant work of our group members. Those who attend are often struggling with low self-esteem so it’s wonderful to see how taking part in these sessions has grown their confidence and given them a sense of pride in the amazing work they produce, and having the opportunity to showcase their work to friends and family will only increase this.”
Councillor Mark Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for growth and regeneration, praised the initiative and the benefits it brings to the community:
“I am so pleased that Shropshire Council was able to support this project through the Vibrant Shropshire grant scheme, which aims to promote social inclusion, community cohesion and economic growth through cultural activities. This is a fantastic example of how art can enhance wellbeing and recovery for people living with mental health issues. I wish everyone exhibiting the very best and encourage people to go along and view the incredible work on display."
The Arts for Health team at MPFT support service users to take part in a range of creative activities including visual art, photography, music, dance, drama, creative writing, reading for wellbeing and poetry. The team received a grant of £4,930 of UK Government funding through Shropshire Council’s Vibrant Shropshire grant scheme, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which supported an expansion of the programme and the staging of the exhibition.