Author: communications

HOW CREATIVITY CAN TRANSFORM YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

Posted on February 27, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

HOW CREATIVITY CAN TRANSFORM YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

Engaging in creative activities has been shown to have significant positive effects on mental health and wellbeing. A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that individuals who spent time on creative pursuits experienced increased positive emotions and reduced depressive symptoms. Additionally, research indicates that engaging in creative activities can reduce stress and anxiety, enhance mood and improve overall wellbeing.

At Create, we witness these positive benefits daily and regularly hear from our participants about the impact of taking part in our projects on their mood and wellbeing . We spoke with participants from our young and adult carer projects, inspired:arts and creative:voices, who shared their experiences of taking part.

BALANCING A CARING ROLE WITH OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

Finding time for oneself while juggling a caregiving role can be challenging. Whether you are an adult or a young person, making space for other responsibilities such as school, work or self-care can be difficult.

inspired:arts is our programme working with young carers, giving them time away from their caring responsibilities to meet new people, build skills and have fun. Aiden (15) took part last year:

“I care for my mum. She has fibromyalgia, which means she has mobility issues; she also has mental health problems. At this stage, doing GCSEs and everything, it’s hard to divide [my] time.”

“It was hard to make time to come [to this project], but I managed to do it. It is challenging, but you find ways to cope.” – aiden

Our creative:voices programme offers adult carers respite and the chance to connect with other carers through the creative arts. Shabana, a participant who cares for her two children, shared:

“I have a 12-year-old daughter who has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and she has a physical disability. She requires a lot of physiotherapy day to day. I also have a seven-year-old boy, who has been diagnosed with autism, dyslexia and has sensory processing issues.

Becoming a carer completely [changed my lifestyle]. I lost my friends. I stopped seeing my family because they didn’t really understand what I was going through. My relationship broke down, as it was just too difficult to juggle a relationship and caring. I always came last.”

MAKING TIME FOR NEW YOURSELF THROUGH CREATE’S PROJECTS

Engaging in creativity not only serves as a mindful escape from daily worries, but also offers participants opportunities to create work they are truly proud of.

“I really enjoyed the chance to express creativity. It was good to see our hard work come to life and it actually turned-out way better than we thought it would. I feel very proud.” – Aiden

“it felt nice [to do something creative]. I haven’t done something like that in a while.” – aiden

“Before this [project], I [had] done nothing creative. Last week was the first time I felt confident enough to put my ideas into practice. I saw some blackberries at the bridge mill and I picked them, extracted the dye from them and then used that dye to print some leaves. And it’s because of what we’ve been doing [on the project].” – Shabana

FINDING RELIEF THROUGH CREATIVITY

Due to the pressure that often comes with caring for a vulnerable person, many carers experience poor mental health. Factors such as financial worries and lack of personal time can increase anxiety and other mental health challenges. Studies show that between 40% and 70% of caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression, with approximately 25% to 50% of these caregivers meeting the diagnostic criteria for major depression.

“Without creativity, life would be dull. This project made me happier than I would have been. It’s given me something to do and I’ve been hanging around with friends. So, it definitely made me happier over these three days.” – Aiden

“[This project has] been really uplifting for my mood. I suffer with a low mood, but doing the artwork gives me moments where I feel like my mind is creating space.” – Shabana

I ALWAYS COMPARE IT TO A GLASS JAR, AND MINE’S REALLY FULL, OVERFLOWING AND CRACKED. i’VE GOT NO MORE SPACE TO DO ANYTHING. BUT WHEN I COME HERE AND DO IT, IT EMPTIES SOME OF THAT JAR. – Shabana

These personal stories highlight the transformative power of creativity in enhancing mental health and wellbeing, especially for those in caregiving roles.

The inspired:arts project that Aiden attended was funded by Sarah Jane Leigh Charitable Trust. The creative:voices project attended by Shabana was funded by The Smiles Fund, awarding funds from Walkers and Comic Relief.

MEET NAZANIN, AN ADULT CARER FROM MANCHESTER

Posted on February 27, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

MEET NAZANIN, AN ADULT CARER FROM MANCHESTER

creative:voices is Create’s multi artform programme with adult carers, giving them respite from their caring role and a chance to meet new people, build new skills and be creative.

For six weeks during September and October 2024, Create artist Rebecca May led a ceramics project with carers at Manchester Carers Forum.

We spoke to adult carer Nazanin about her experience on the project.

NAZANIN’S STORY

“I’ve got three kids. Two of my sons are diagnosed with autism and my daughter has recently been diagnosed with ARFID (Avoidant Resistive Food Intake Disorder). She is on the waiting list for CAMHS assessment for autism as well. I care for their needs, giving them safe environment where they can be [themselves] rather than having to mask.

CARING FOR THEM HAS CHANGED MY LIFESTYLE. i’VE LOST MY FREEDOM.

When you have a child, you lose your freedom, but when you have a child who is neurodiverse, the level of freedom that you lose is even higher because you can’t get a babysitter without worrying [if] their needs [are] going to be met.

It has sometimes made me feel a bit more trapped. A couple of years ago I had to quit my job because it was just burning me out too much. I can’t work, even though I want to, because mentally I can’t concentrate on work and on their needs. And you can’t have a night off. I can get quite overwhelmed, and no matter what I do, I feel burnt out.”

MAKING TIME FOR NEW EXPERIENCES

“I really enjoyed the project. I loved working with jesmonite, because I’ve never come across it before. I love learning new things, so being exposed to a new material that is quick and easy was the best thing for me. It has completely blown my mind, because I never knew it existed. I’ve created lots of trinkets for me and my kids. I’m really happy with what I’ve made. I’m just thinking now in my head about where I can put them in the house.

We ended up with a good group [on the project]. I’ve enjoyed it because everyone is in a similar situation, as we’re all carers, so there’s a level of understanding. It’s nice to share ideas and see everyone’s different points of view and how they interpret what they’ve made. I’ve really enjoyed that.”

CRAFTING FOR MENTAL HEALTH

“I used to do lots of crafts in my younger years, but not so much as an adult because I’m always rushing around thinking about what needs to be done around the house. It was so nice to slow down and do something for myself. Crafting for me is my happy place. I think I feel a lot more relaxed knowing I’m going to dedicate time to [crafting]. I’ve really enjoyed it!

It has definitely benefited [my mental health]. Especially at this time of year, when everything gets a bit depressing, it has got me out of the house. It’s definitely had a positive effect. And I’m a stressor naturally. I’m someone who doesn’t slow down, even though I’ve been told I need to for my health. Being forced to slow down helps.

DOING SOMETHING LIKE THIS HAS REALLY HELPED ME FOCUS ON MYSELF.

I think when you’re a carer, you get so focused on the person you’re caring about, you then forget yourself. These kinds of projects help you move away from being in the house and constantly caring. You can actually focus on your own mental health. I think we need more of these kinds of projects.”

creative:voices was funded by The Smile Fund, awarding funds from Comic Relief and Walkers.

THE POWER OF CREATIVITY: NICKY GOULDER JOINS THE UNDERSTANDING SOCIETY PODCAST

Posted on February 26, 2025 by - News

THE POWER OF CREATIVITY: NICKY GOULDER JOINS THE UNDERSTANDING SOCIETY PODCAST

Create’s Founding Chief Executive, Nicky Goulder MBE, recently joined the Understanding Society podcast to discuss the vital connection between creativity and mental health. In conversation with Dr Karen Mak, a researcher exploring the impact of arts engagement on wellbeing, and host Chris Coates, Nicky highlighted the transformative power of the arts, particularly for those facing isolation or mental health challenges.

Dr Mak shared compelling research demonstrating that engaging in creative activities doesn’t just improve wellbeing, but creates a positive feedback loop where people who take part in the arts feel happier, and happier individuals are more likely to engage in creative activities. This aligns with our mission here at Create, as we regularly see how creativity reduces stress, builds confidence and encourages social connection among its participants.

The discussion also touched on the role of social prescribing, where healthcare professionals refer individuals to creative and community activities to support their mental health. Nicky highlighted how Create’s free, high-quality arts projects offer crucial respite and empowerment for carers, young people with SEND and other marginalised communities.

At the heart of the conversation was a shared belief: everyone should have access to the life-changing benefits of creativity.

Listen to the full conversation and explore the research behind the impact of creativity on mental health.

BUILDING CHARITABLE PARTNERSHIPS EVENT

Posted on February 19, 2025 by - News

BUILDING CHARITABLE PARTNERSHIPS EVENT

Earlier this month, Create partnered with Brown-Forman to host an inspiring presentation and networking event focused on Building Charitable Partnerships. The evening brought together corporate partners, charity representatives and like-minded professionals to explore how meaningful collaborations can create lasting social impact.

Held in Brown-Forman’s wonderful space, the event was hosted by Karen Bendell, Create’s Head of Corporate Development & Marketing. Guests enjoyed delicious cocktails and food, generously provided by Brown-Forman, while engaging in thought-provoking discussions about the power of corporate-charity partnerships.

The evening featured insightful talks from Izzy Hardy (Senior Operations Specialist, Brown-Forman); Alice Dias (CEO, Carers’ Hub Lambeth); and Abi (Create Youth Ambassador) in conversation with our CEO, Nicky Goulder MBE. Each shared their unique perspectives on the transformative impact of the creative arts, the role business can play in supporting vulnerable communities, and the role charity can play in enabling companies to meet their Responsible Business objectives. Their words resonated with attendees, sparking dynamic conversations and fresh ideas for collaboration.

As the night drew to a close, one thing was clear – strong partnerships between charities and businesses have the power to change lives. We are deeply grateful to Brown-Forman for hosting this event and to everyone who attended for making it such a success.

We look forward to continuing these conversations and fostering even more impactful collaborations in the future!

If you’re interested in finding out how to partner with Create, you can learn more here!

MEET JILL, AN ADULT CARER FROM TOWER HAMLETS

Posted on January 31, 2025 by - Blogs

MEET JILL, AN ADULT CARER FROM TOWER HAMLETS

Adult carers from Tower Hamlet standing in front of their photographs, which are displayed on the wall

Between June and September 2024, professional photographer Alejandra Carles-Tolra led a series of creative:release photography workshops with carers from Carers Centre Tower Hamlets. The project, funded by Reed Smith, provided adult carers with a creative outlet, time for self-expression and a supportive community where they could connect with their peers.

We spoke to Jill (63), who has been a carer for her son since he was six years old, about her experience of taking part in the project.

THE HEALING POWER OF CREATIVE ENGAGEMENT

In 1992, Jill’s six-year-old son was hit by a car, suffering a traumatic brain injury that left him quadriplegic. Since then, Jill has been his full-time carer, responsible for all of his personal needs: “I wash him, shave him, dress him – it’s all time-consuming because he needs one-to-one care, even during the night. It’s difficult and demanding.”

For Jill, the demands of her role as a carer are all-encompassing, making time for herself a rare luxury.

Being [here] is just an oasis. It’s a sanctuary coming to the carers’ centre and being part of the [project] that Create runs.

THE PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT

For Jill, the creative:release workshops weren’t just about learning new skills, they were about rediscovering herself beyond her caring role. The photography sessions, themed around “How We Grow”, encouraged participants to reflect on their journeys and tell stories through images.

“The project has been such a joy. We’ve created some amazing work – not just photographs, but works of art. They’re powerful pieces.”

Jill, who had always admired photography but lacked confidence with a camera, spoke about how the workshops helped her develop:

“The skills development has been phenomenal for me because I really like photography, but I’m not very confident with a camera. We learned new techniques and it was very informative.”

Beyond learning new techniques, photography became a form of mindfulness for Jill, an opportunity to be fully present in the moment, appreciating small details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Jill also found that the workshops provided a rare sense of time and space away from her responsibilities:

“Having the chance to be creative is huge! It transports you to being more than just your caring role. When you’re a carer, it’s all-consuming, unfortunately.”

This project gave me time for me.

CONNECTING WITH OTHER CARERS

Equally important to the improvements to Jill’s wellbeing was the sense of community that came from connecting with other carers who shared similar experiences. Jill found the group atmosphere to be one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.

“The group is fantastic. The enthusiasm was contagious. It was wonderful to spend time with others who understand the challenges of being a carer.”

The workshops created a space where words weren’t always necessary:

“Sometimes you don’t need words, because we all understand what it’s like to be a carer. You’re always on the back burner because your time is consumed with looking after the person you care for. So, it’s nice to have not just a social outlet, but an emotional and caring outlet as well, because we all understand each other.”

AN OASIS OF CREATIVITY AND CONNECTION

The creative:release project, designed in collaboration with Reed Smith which also provides volunteer support, aims to provide adult carers with a space to recharge, express themselves and build supportive relationships with others.

For Jill, this experience was life-changing:

Coming together fills me with joy. I can’t think of anything more inspiring that being part of something creative and sharing it with others.

At Create, we know that creativity can provide a lifeline for carers, offering them time to focus on themselves and the chance to reconnect with their passions. Thanks to the support of our community and funding partners, we can continue to create spaces where carers like Jill can rediscover their confidence, build connections and experience the joy of creativity.

This project was funded by Reed Smith.

EXPLORING DIFFERENT ART FORMS THROUGH CREATIVE:VOICES

Posted on January 31, 2025 by - Blogs

EXPLORING DIFFERENT ART FORMS THROUGH CREATIVE:VOICES

Unpaid carers dedicate their time and energy to supporting others, meaning they often miss out on opportunities to prioritise their own wellbeing. At Create, we recognise the importance of giving adult carers time for self-care, creativity and connection. Through our creative:voices programme, we deliver workshops across the UK, using a wide range of art forms to support carers in rediscovering joy and building resilience.

In 2024/25, we partnered with 16 different adult carer services, to offer participants respite from their caring responsibilities. Projects ranged from textiles and painting to photography and song writing.

We spoke to Ligia, Hilary and Marcus who shared their experiences of creative:voices.

THE CHALLENGES OF CARING FOR A VULNERABLE FAMILY MEMBER

For many carers, the role can feel overwhelming and isolating, especially when their loved ones have complex needs.

Ligia, an adult carer from Lambeth, shared her experience of caring for her son:

“He’s 13-years-old now and he’s autistic. He’s really bright, but he’s very anxious and worried and he catastrophises a lot. He struggled a lot in the transition to year seven. And every day for six months I was fighting for his rights in the school. It’s still not perfect, but we’re getting there.”

Similarly, Marcus, also from Lambeth, balances caring for his son and his mother:

“I’m a single parent. My son is 13 and he’s autistic. [I’m his] primary carer. I also care for my mother, who’s had a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease so her memory is not very good at the moment. It [can] be quite isolating [being a carer]. Because of my son’s autistic state, he’s virtually monosyllabic. Sometimes he refuses to talk to me. I do not often have the chance to do creative things normally due to my circumstances.”

Hilary, from Lewisham, reflected on the challenges of caring for her daughter, who has complex mental health needs:

“I care for my 18-year-old daughter. She’s waiting for a firm assessment for borderline personality disorder, which is one of the hardest mental health conditions to live with. She also has autism and ADHD. So, her needs have always been very complex. I’ve been caring for her all her life.  It’s been quite difficult to manage. “

These stories highlight the immense dedication that carers show and the toll that caring responsibilities can take on their emotional wellbeing and social lives.

ENGAGING WITH DIFFERENT ARTISTIC PRACTICES

Our creative:voices programme offers carers a chance to engage with different forms of creativity, helping them rediscover parts of themselves beyond their caring role.

For Ligia, the textiles workshops were a meaningful way to reflect on her identity and share her creativity:

“We’ve been doing a textiles workshop, exploring a lot of techniques related to fabrics, different textures and materials, and upcycling. On the first day we got the news that our work would be displayed in a [White Stuff] shop window.”

I made a mandala that has got many pieces of who I am. Because as carers, we often put our lives on pause and we can forget who we are. I’m feeling really pleased with it.

Meanwhile, Marcus, who took part in the song writing workshops, described his newfound love for singing:

“I’ve never sung before, other than a little practicing at home when I’m chopping the onions. But I’ve never sung with other people like this. The songs we’ve created are sort of spontaneous. People have written stuff down and the fantastic musicians have added notes and chords to these words. It’s quite magical.”

CONNECTING WITH OTHER CARERS

In addition to exploring their creativity, many carers value the opportunity to build connections and friendships with others who understand their experiences.

Ligia shared how meaningful it was to be in a space where she could speak openly about her son’s challenges:

“I’m a single mother, so there are a lot of things in my social life that get put on pause. That’s why workshops like these are really good for carers. We can come here and talk with other parents in similar situations, which really helps. [These projects] definitely help carers reduce isolation.”

Similarly, Hilary shared how the workshops strengthened her connections with others and encouraged collaboration:

“I’ve met other people and I got to know the people I already knew even better. I liked the group work. I think everybody’s got something to offer. And we all took very different pictures of the same things.”

Marcus also appreciated the group dynamic, describing how uplifting it was to connect with others through music:

“[The workshops have] been a wonderful experience, and the musicians are so creative and spontaneous. There is an element of magic in the room. And I’ve learnt that I have got a little bit of musicality [in] me! “[I’ve enjoyed] the creative process, and the communal aspect to it is wonderful as well. I’ve left here really quite happy with a spring in my step.”

Through creative:voices, carers not only discover new ways to express themselves but also a sense of belonging and support, reminding us that creativity can be a vital lifeline for connection, respite and self-discovery.

We are proud to have won a prestigious Mental Health Award for creative:voices in 2024.

creative:voices is funded by The Smile Fund, awarding funds from Walkers and Comic Relief

Create founder Nicky Goulder awarded MBE in New Year Honours List

Posted on December 31, 2024 by - News

CREATE FOUNDER NICKY GOULDER AWARDED MBE IN NEW YEAR HONOURS LIST

We are delighted that Nicky Goulder, Founding Chief Executive of Create, has been awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List 2025.

She receives the award in recognition of “services to Disadvantaged People and to Charity” including her tireless work to expand access to the creative arts for the most vulnerable people in our society.

Commenting on her honour, Nicky said:

“I founded Create 21 years ago in the belief that everyone should have access to the life-enhancing power of the creative arts, which offer hope, inspiration, connection and skill-building. I have combined my work at Create with a number of voluntary positions for charities that have been inspirational and deeply rewarding. It is an honour to be awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Honours List 2025 in recognition of the impact that we are making. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved with Create over the years for their commitment, passion and dedication and hope that this award helps to shine a light on the importance of making creativity accessible to everyone. This vision has been – and will continue to be – the driving force in my life into the future.”

Tony Cates, Chair of the Create Board of Trustees, said:

“This award is testament to the incredible impact that Nicky and her team have had on the individuals, organisations and communities that Create has worked with over 21 years. First as Trustee and now as Chair, I have had the great privilege of seeing this award-winning charity give increasing numbers of marginalised people each year access to the benefits of the creative arts. Creativity opens up new possibilities and enhances confidence and wellbeing. Everyone involved in Create’s work under Nicky’s dedicated and inspiring leadership can take pride in supporting this exceptional charity whose positive impact on society has been recognised at the highest level.”

Founded by Nicky in 2003, Create is a multi-award-winning charity empowering lives, reducing isolation and enhancing wellbeing through the creative arts. Create provides free creative experiences for those who need these most, working with professional artists and community partners to bring creativity directly to the most marginalised people in our society. It has delivered 15,500 workshops to date with more than 47,000 participants across the UK.

Create’s work has been recognised with more than 130 awards since 2012, including Charity Times Charity of the Year 2020. Most recently, in October 2024, the charity was awarded a prestigious Mental Health Award, recognising the importance and value of creativity for wellbeing.

Prior to founding Create, Nicky was Chief Executive of the Orchestra of St John’s. She has extensive experience in creative arts management, before which she was a Marketing Executive at KPMG.

Nicky has won a number of awards, including Clarins Most Dynamisante Woman of the Year 2013 (which brought with it a £30,000 prize for Create) and, most recently, Arts Innovator in the Women&Home Amazing Women Awards 2023.

Nicky is passionate about volunteering and is currently a Childline Counsellor (since 2021); and a Trustee of both Carers’ Hub Lambeth (2024) and Wales Millennium Centre (2018). She became a Climate Reality Leader in 2021. Previously, she has been a Samaritan (2002-2022); a Trustee of MYTIME Young Carers (2021-2024); a Trustee/Vice Chair of the Queen’s Nursing Institute (2009-2019); advisor to the Pro Youth Philharmonia (2017-2020); a YouthXpress leader at Southwark Cathedral, where she worked with young people aged 11-18 (2007-2017); and a Childline Counsellor (1993-1998).

HOW CREATIVITY ENRICHES THE LIVES OF PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA

Posted on December 20, 2024 by - Blogs

HOW CREATIVITY ENRICHES THE LIVES OF people with dementia

Creativity holds a unique power to connect, heal and inspire. For individuals with dementia, engaging in the arts can provide a sense of purpose, enhance cognitive abilities, and foster meaningful connections. Through art links, Create’s creative arts programme for vulnerable older people with dementia and age-related challenges, we aim to deliver these benefits with some of society’s most vulnerable people. At Chamberlain House Dementia Resource Centre in West London, our recent six-week music project demonstrated the profound impact that creativity can have on participants’ lives.

THE HEALING POWER OF CREATIVE ENGAGEMENT

Scientific studies have shown that creative activities can significantly improve the wellbeing of individuals with dementia. Engaging in art or music helps activate areas of the brain responsible for memory, emotion and communication. According to Age UK, participating in arts-based projects an reduce anxiety, alleviate depression and increase feelings of self-worth.

Image shows a Create professional musician, leading a music project with older adults
Participants taking part in another art:links music project

At Chamberlain House, Create musician John Webb worked with service users to compose songs inspired by their personal stories and cultural heritage. The project was not just about making music though; it was about creating a safe space for self-expression and connection. Begoña, a staff member at the centre, noted the importance of Create’s longstanding partnership with the centre:

Service users can work with professional artists and do activities that we can’t provide. They benefit very much.

The value of such engagement goes beyond the workshops themselves. Participants find joy in the process and feel proud of their achievements, demonstrating that creativity can be a powerful tool for resilience and growth.

STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION

The impact of Create’s work is perhaps best seen in the stories of the individuals who take part. Begoña shared several moving examples of how art:links has changed lives at Chamberlain House:

Image shows three women smiling and holding hands as they take part in a Create project
Participants at one of our other art:links projects.

Mrs P__, who often avoids activities, found confidence and joy during the music workshops. For the first time, she actively contributed by playing instruments and sharing her thoughts. She was so proud of her involvement that she wanted to invite her whole family to see what she had accomplished.

Mrs S__, who struggles with social anxiety and depression, initially observed the sessions from a distance. By the end of the project, she was playing musical instruments and interacting confidently with others. Her daughter was amazed at the transformation, saying,

i couldn’t believe how well she was engaging in such a big group.

Another participant rediscovered her love for the piano after years of not playing due to dementia. Her family shared that the project reignited her passion, and she began playing at home again.

These stories remind us that creativity can unlock hidden potential, even in the face of complex challenges.

CONTINUING THE CREATIVE JOURNEY

Participants taking part in an art:links visual art project

art:links has left a lasting impression on the participants and their families. As Begoña shared, “We have two ladies who are aware the project is finishing, and they are already asking when the next one is going to be.” The enthusiasm and anticipation for future projects reflect the deep impact that creativity has had on their lives.

At Create, we are committed to providing opportunities for vulnerable people to connect, express themselves and thrive through the creative arts. Projects like art:links not only enrich the lives of participants but also challenge assumptions about what individuals with dementia can achieve with the right support.

Thank you to our funders: The Charity of Sir Richard Whittington [via The Mercers’ Company], City Bridge Foundation and Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea’s Arts Grants Scheme.

MEET DEIRDRE, AN ADULT CARER FROM NOTTINGHAM

Posted on December 20, 2024 by - Blogs

MEET DEIRDRE, AN ADULT CARER FROM nottingham

Captured at one of our creative:voices projects.

During September and October 2024, Create musician Bethan Roberts led a series of online music workshops as part of our creative:voices programme, designed to provide adult carers with much-needed respite. Delivered via Create Live!, the workshops enabled carers from The Carers Federation in Nottingham to explore their creativity, connect with others and rediscover joy in a supportive and accessible environment.

We spoke with participant, Deirdre (78) who shared her experience of balancing her caring role for her husband with with her own need for creative expression and mental wellbeing.

Deirdre’s Story

“I care for my husband David. We’ve been married for 56 years. He’s got subcortical vascular dementia, which means he’s got all this intelligence but absolutely no memory – about 30 seconds, if I’m lucky. It means everything needs [to be repeated]. He still thinks he can do everything he used to, like cooking, and that puts him in quite a dangerous position.

“We’ve always shared all home responsibilities until [these] last 10 years when he started to decline. Now my responsibilities include trying to get him to exercise and trying to give him a bit of variety in life. I feel sad for him because his freedom of choice is gone now.

Captured at one of our creative:voices projects.

“And I suppose I always lack sleep, which makes me very weepy. Because I need to check on him at night.”

The value of such engagement goes beyond the workshops themselves. Participants find joy in the process and feel proud of their achievements, demonstrating that creativity can be a powerful tool for resilience and growth.

ADDING CREATIVITY BACK IN

“I miss my hobbies. I used to walk a local trail every morning, but I can’t do that now. I can’t just nip to the shops. I’ve lost the ability to write poetry. I’ve had to cut back on everything I do.

That’s where this music [project] has been so important to me because it’s brought creativity back into my life. I have an appointment with it.

“And my main challenge at the moment is I need to think about myself more. This is a good starting point to enabling me, hopefully, to take some of those further steps that I know I need to [take].”

THE POWER OF MUSIC

“We’ve been taking part in a creative music [project] on screen alongside other people. Much to my immense surprise, we’ve written the words and music for a song. It was quite exciting to hear it all come together. We got to see our music grow and develop, in the same way as plants would grow in a garden, which was very rewarding.

Captured at one of our creative:voices projects.

“My favourite part of the workshop was when we coloured along to music. It really linked me to the music. I’ve just bought myself some watercolour pencils so I can do it for myself. I’m excited to try and take it a stage further if I can.”

TEAMWORK

“I’ve gained an awful lot through working as a team and conversing with other people on this project. It’s been great fun to work with people who I hadn’t met before and there were so many talents in the group. The teamwork has been such an important part of the project.”

CREATIVITY AND WELLBEING

“I loved being creative. It took me away physically, mentally, and emotionally from my caring role. I’m very tied down by my caring, because I’m a 24/7 carer with just an hour and a half of help each day. But creating things takes us away from ourselves. When you’re involved in creating, you can’t think about how much your feet ache or how your brain is in a fuzz.

this project has added hugely to my life. It’s added to my contentment because I feel I’ve accomplished something and done something different. I think everybody needs someting creative because it takes you out of yourself into another world.

“It’s difficult to get your own growth or your own needs met when you’re a 24/7 carer. David has no idea of any of my needs now, which can be quite painful because I can’t connect with him in that way anymore. So this project has helped me to consider where I am mentally. This is what brings me to tears. I’ve had to think about myself and not somebody else. I have to think about making sure that I’m all right, as well as my husband. And that makes all the difference.”

Captured at one of our creative:voices projects.

CREATE LIVE!

Create Live! is Create’s platform of online workshops. Running creative sessions online enables us to engage participants who might previously have been unable to take part.

“One of the really good things [about Create Live!] is that is hasn’t taken me out of the house. It’s allowed me to do an awful lots of things, but I’m still in contact with David if I need to be. And he knows where I am. It takes away the stress, because I know that I’ve settled my husband down and that he’s alright. And I know that I can walk out at any point and check on him, which is fantastic.”

creative:voices is one of Create’s many programmes designed to bring creativity, connection, new skills and joy to those who need them most. For Deirdre, it’s been a lifeline – offering respite, self-expression, and the confidence to nurture her own wellbeing.

This project is funded by The Smiles Fund, awarding funds from Comic Relief and Walkers.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS THROUGH MUSIC: CREATIVE:CONNECTION IN MANCHESTER AND SALFORD

Posted on November 30, 2024 by - Blogs

BUILDING CONNECTIONS THROUGH MUSIC: CREATIVE:CONNECTION IN MANCHESTER AND SALFORD

At Create, we believe in the power of the creative arts to connect people, build skills, break down barriers, and foster a more inclusive society. We designed our creative:connection programme to bring together disabled and non-disabled children, enabling them to build relationships and dismantle stereotypes around disability. Our recent project in Manchester/Salford, led by four of our professional musicians, brought this vision to life, offering young participants from four mainstream and special schools the unique opportunity to collaborate on music and lyrics.

In a society where disabled children have few opportunities to engage with their non-disabled peers, projects like creative:connection are crucial. Research shows that disabled children experience social isolation more frequently than non-disabled children, often with limited opportunities for interaction in communal settings. Further research reveals that disabled children often face barriers in accessing music education. creative:connecton tackled this head-on, creating a joyful, inclusive environment where participants could express themselves, learn new skills, and connect with each other.

gaining confidence through music and collaboration

Throughout the project, the young people grew in confidence as they learned to play instruments, write lyrics, and perform as an ensemble. For many, this was a transformative experience. One participant shared, “I enjoyed playing in an ensemble with the other school,” while another said, “Matt and Bethan [Create’s professional musicians] are amazing teachers; they make me feel more confident, even when I mess up.”

Staff at the schools noted the positive impact on those who typically struggle with confidence:

They have engaged really well, those who struggle with confidence and conversation came out of their shells to share their creation and their work.

finding joy and creative expression together

As the groups worked toward the final performance, the joy and camaraderie among the participants became evident. A parent in the audience shared, “He doesn’t ever tell us what he does at school [yet] every night this week, he’s come home and told us what he’s been doing, he’s loved it.” This feedback underscores the value of these inclusive spaces, where young people feel empowered to share their experiences.

creative:connection was part of Manchester Literature Festival and this year’s theme, Joy!, was beautifully expressed by the participants. They came together to create a new music piece entitled Mystic Bolero, which one of the musicians described as “very different to what school groups normally create — it’s on another level.” The power of shared creativity was palpable, with participants commenting, “It’s fun and it makes me happy” and “I liked the creative side, coming together to write the lyrics.”

the power of connection and community

On the day of the final performance, all four schools gathered to share their collaborative creations. Watching the students perform and seeing their pride in what they had achieved together was truly moving. One of the school staff members said, “I’ve had to stop myself from crying, please, please, please come back next year.” The musicians involved also noted the students’ hard work, with one saying, “Teamwork and creativity are absolutely great, producing two wonderful pieces of music. They have worked so hard.”

The feedback from both participants and staff reflects how projects like creative:connection build meaningful connections and foster an inclusive community.