Author: communications

MEET AMARA: A FREE INSIDE PARTICIPANT

Posted on May 31, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

MEET AMARA: A FREE INSIDE PARTICIPANT

Free Inside is Create’s multi-artform programme working within Psychologically Informed Planned Environment (PIPE) units in women’s prisons.

Research shows that prisoners taking part in arts-based programmes experienced improved wellbeing, communication and motivation, with many reporting that the projects had a lasting impact on their confidence and ability to cope with prison life.

For six days in January 2025, Create artist Xanthe delivered a mural painting workshop with residents at His Majesty’s Prison (HMP), supported by Nurturing Talent emerging artist Eli.

We spoke to Amara* about her experience on the project.

GAINING SKILLS AND SELF-BELIEF

Like many participants, Amara began the week unsure of her own ability, but finished with a renewed sense of self.

“When I heard that we had the opportunity to do a mural for the PIPE corridor and to work with some artists, I was really intrigued and decided to participate in this project.”

“I am a modest artist myself, but still sometimes I don’t feel confident making art. But [the Create team] made me feel at ease and actually helped me out a lot, and taught me a few things about art. That did help with my confidence.”

I was proud to see my artwork being admired, but also proud of the others because each piece was amazing.

SUPPORTING EACH OTHER THROUGH ART

The project also helped to strengthen bonds among residents, many of whom had never tried anything like this before.

“It was sweet for the other PIPE residents that had no confidence at all to be reassured by the Create crew. It was nice to see everyone giving it a go and sharing ideas and we all supported each other.”

We should do more of [these kinds] of workshops. It really helps [build] teamwork, self-confidence and belonging.

ART FOR WELLBEING

Amara shared how creativity supported her wellbeing during her time inside:

“I love art because it’s so therapeutic and enjoyable. When in prison, it’s a good distraction.”

“I really enjoyed painting; it was so relaxed and you could really see the mural coming alive. And the end result was amazingly beautiful. When [I] look at it, I feel relaxed and content. I think it brightens the place up.”

“I feel more confident in myself and this project will be part of my good memories.”

Amara’s experience is a powerful reminder of how creativity can build confidence, community and calm, even in more challenging environments.

*Name changed to protect anonymity

The Impact of Arts in Prison

Posted on May 31, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

The Impact of Arts in Prison

Across the UK, prisons are exploring the role that creativity can play in rehabilitation and wellbeing. With research showing that arts programmes in prisons reduce reoffending, boost confidence and support mental health, it’s clear that creativity can offer a powerful route to transformation.

Inside Change is Create’s arts and financial literacy programme for prisoners, combining creativity with practical life skills. In March 2025, participants at His Majesty’s Prison and Young Offender Institution (HMP/YOI) took part in a radio drama project led by professional artist James. Over three weeks, they explored financial themes such as budgeting and debt, through the process of writing, performing and producing their own radio plays.

We spoke to three participants – Helen, Ciara and Riley* – about what the experience meant to them.

LEARNING THROUGH CREATIVITY

For many participants, the sessions helped to break down complex topics like loans and mortgages into something they could fully engage with.

“We’ve learnt about money and debt management skills, and we’ve created a radio play about crime,” said Helen.

“James [taught] us about mortgages and how they work, loans, how much you’ve got to pay back and how you work it out,” Ciara added. “I learnt a lot.”

The group even designed their own business ideas to put their learning into practice. Riley explained:

“We worked out the costs and benefits of [building] a Botox business. James [made] blueprint paperwork on the direct costs, the indirect costs … how much we’d earn and then how much we’d put into the business, for the building, the staff, the hospitality.”

The group appreciated the life relevance of what they were learning:

It’s been life skills-oriented as well, which is good

CIARA, INSIDE CHANGE participant

UNEXPECTED CONFIDENCE

Trying something new – especially in front of others – wasn’t easy for everyone. But the process helped participants build confidence in themselves and one another:

“The biggest challenge for me was going on the microphone,” said Helen. “In the first week, I was refusing, but now [the Create team] have got us all on it. It was fun.”

Riley, too, found herself growing through the project:

“It’s something different and you learn something new. I really enjoyed it. I liked writing the scripts and talking on the microphone.”

IT’S BUILT UP MY CONFIDENCE A LOT

RILEy, INSIDE CHANGE participant

PREPARING FOR LIFE AFTER PRISON

For all three women, the value of the project extended far beyond the workshop room. They saw how the skills they were developing could support them in the future, from budgeting to communication.

“This project could benefit me in the future,” said Riley. “You never know, I could go into a new job and need these skills that I didn’t know I needed, and now I’ve got them.”

Helen echoed that sentiment: “It’s benefited us more than school, because I never learnt any of this in school.”

For Ciara and Riley, the opportunity to explore financial topics in a creative way felt empowering:

“When we did the task of taking a loan from the bank, we didn’t look at the terms and conditions at the end. We could have benefited from that. Instead, in our situation, we took a loss. So yeah, we [would] definitely read all of it now and not just skip it,” said Ciara.

“Not everyone will have the chance,” added Riley. “I didn’t go to school and I’ve not really had parents there to explain to me how to manage money. I’ve learnt everything myself. So it’s appreciated that [Create have come] and I can do [this project].”

These powerful reflections remind us that, even in prison, creativity can open doors: to learning, to confidence, and to a more hopeful future.

This project was funded by Santander UK Foundation Limited.

*Names changed to protect anonymity

grant from wates foundation supports INSPIRED:ARTS, A NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR YOUNG CARERS

Posted on May 20, 2025 by - News

grant from wates foundation supports INSPIRED:ARTS, A NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR YOUNG CARERS

Across the UK, young carers are juggling responsibilities far beyond their years – providing emotional support, household care, and helping family members with disabilities or long-term health conditions. For many, opportunities to connect, create, and simply be children are few and far between.

That’s why inspired:arts, Create’s multi-artform programme with young carers, is so vital.

Thanks to support from funders like Wates Foundation, the 2024/25 programme spanned locations from Uxbridge to Enfield, Bury to Sefton, and Wales to Scotland, offering hundreds of young carers across the country a break from their caring roles and a chance to explore their creativity, connect with others, and grow in confidence.

EXPRESSING YOURSELF THROUGH MUSIC: VICTORIA’S STORY (EALING & HOUNSLOW)

In August 2024, Victoria (18) joined a three-day music project in Ealing & Hounslow led by Create musician Paul Griffiths. The experience gave her and her peers space to reflect, create and connect.

“Create has been an opportunity for us to express our views and to use our voices to discuss topics that are important to us, such as peace.”

She appreciated how the project sparked creativity while also encouraging dialogue across different perspectives:

“Working with the rest of the group has been a privilege. We’ve discussed perspectives that are, of course, different from my own and that’s been very educational for me.”

For Victoria, the workshops offered more than music – they were an opportunity to be heard, understood, and inspired.

“It’s important to have the chance to do something creative so that, moving forward, we can express our views and ideas on important matters more articulately.”

FINDING JOY IN CREATIVITY: GAVAAN’S STORY (UXBRIDGE)

In February 2025, Gavaan (10) joined music workshops led by Create musician Holly Khan at Carers Trust Hillingdon in Uxbridge. Gavaan cares for her younger sister, who has speech and language delay and finds it difficult to engage socially.

The project gave her a joyful outlet and a space to connect with others who understand her experience:

[This project] takes my mind off [my caring role]. You can get to know kids that [are in the same situation as you] and need to deal with the same things.

GAVAAN, young carer

Crucially, inspired:arts also gave her time to have fun and relax:

“Playing the instruments is fun. I liked working with the group. It was fun to work with other people and they have lots of good ideas.”

CREATIVITY WITH NATIONAL REACH

In 2024/25, our young carer programmes reached 619 young carers across the UK in:

Greater London boroughs like Barnet, Bromley, Enfield, Hackney, Kingston, Sutton and Waltham Forest

  • North West locations via our Manchester hub including Blackpool, Bolton, Bury, Cheshire and Sefton
  • Other regions across Cambridgeshire, Hampshire, Kent and Nottinghamshire
  • And within the other three nations: Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales

Every project was co-created with local young carer services, tailored to the needs and interests of each group, and delivered by Create’s professional artists. Through art, music, dance, photography and more, these projects offered young carers a rare chance to express themselves, build new friendships and feel seen.

Thank you to Wates Foundation for funding inspired:arts in Ealing & Hounslow and Hackney.

Nicky Goulder ~ Founding Chief Executive

EXPANDING ACCESS TO CREATIVITY IN THE NORTH WEST

Posted on May 20, 2025 by - News

EXPANDING ACCESS TO CREATIVITY IN THE NORTH WEST

In late 2024, Create received a grant from Garfield Weston Foundation to support our programmes across the North West of England. This funding has been instrumental in enabling us to reach more individuals and communities, fostering creativity, and providing much-needed respite for carers.

Despite the North West’s vibrant cultural scene, there are notable challenges in arts engagement. A 2024 report highlighted that since 2010, the UK’s total cultural budget has been reduced by 6%, with local public funding for cultural services decreasing between 39% and 48% across various regions.

These statistics underscore the importance of our mission to make creativity accessible to everyone. Thanks to our funders, including the grant from Garfield Weston Foundation, we are expanding our vital work of giving the most marginalised people in our society opportunities to engage with the creative arts.

EMPOWERING ADULT CARERS THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY IN MANCHESTER

Our creative:voices programme offers adult carers respite from their caring responsibilities. Between September and October 2024, Create artist Becky Lattin led six weeks of photography.

Hazel took part in the workshops and reflected on how the project helped her see the world – and herself – differently.

“I’ve never smiled so much and been so happy,” she said. “I’m feeding off the positivity here. I also found [that being creative] made me feel more relaxed and sharpened my mind.”

“I’ve learnt to be bold, be brave, and just go and take the picture as close as possible. It was wonderful seeing like-minded people trying to do something different with their lives.”

CONNECTION THROUGH CREATIVITY

In Sefton, young carers Ocean (11) and Bob (nine) explored sound and music in a series of workshops with Create musician Bethan Roberts. Working together to write, record and produce their own songs helped foster connection, self-expression and fun.

“You get to have time away from your siblings,” Ocean shared, “and you can see people that have the same problems as you. So, you feel a bit less on your own.”

You get to have time away from your siblings, and you can see people that have the same problems as you. So, you feel a bit less on your own.

Ocean, young carer

Bob added, “Some people have said I have a wild imagination through this. It’s good to show how unique you are to other people.”

FINDING YOUR VOICE

For Peter, an adult carer who attends Manchester Carers Forum, the creative writing project led by Ben Mellor offered a rare and much-needed outlet. “It was very good [doing something creative],” he said. “It keeps your mind working. And you get a sense of achievement with what you produce.”

LOOKING AHEAD

From photography to drama, from music to writing, these projects have supported a diverse range of people – helping them feel heard, valued and inspired. Thanks to Garfield Weston Foundation, we are continuing to grow this work across the North West, ensuring creativity reaches the people who need it most.

Nicky Goulder ~ Founding Chief Executive

HOW CREATIVITY SUPPORTS CONFIDENCE, CONNECTION AND CURIOSITY, NO MATTER YOUR AGE

Posted on April 30, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

HOW CREATIVITY SUPPORTS CONFIDENCE, CONNECTION AND CURIOSITY, NO MATTER YOUR AGE

As we grow older, life can become increasingly isolating – especially when facing age-related challenges, loss of a loved one or the impact of illness. Creative expression offers something powerful: a way to connect, to be seen, and to rediscover parts of ourselves that we may have lost.

Through art:links, Create’s creative arts programme for vulnerable older adults, participants are offered the chance to explore different artforms, develop skills and enjoy meaningful moments of connection. We spoke with three participants based in London – Areesha, Marie-Louise and Vivienne – who shared what creativity has meant to them.

ENCOURAGING CURIOSITY AND JOY THROUGH CREATIVITY

Areesha (60+), who took part in drama workshops in Westminster, found herself energised by learning something new each week:

“I’m really happy because each week was a little bit different. I never thought of acting with a mask on, and it was something new to learn.”

“Taking part did impact me. It made me cheerful and brought a liveliness and silliness, which I like to have. By being creative you learn something and at the same time your brain works and you gain knowledge.”

Areesha – art:links participant

For Areesha, the creative process wasn’t just about performance – it was about discovery:

“This project opened up my curiosity, it’s a different avenue and you learn something about how you are as a person. It’s a beautiful thing.”

CREATIVITY FOR CONFIDENCE

Marie-Louise (93), a sculptor and painter from Haringey, was delighted to find space where the joy of creating mattered more than the final product:

“It’s very valuable because it keeps my brain stimulated, which is very important”

“I’ve learnt that I don’t have to worry too much about what I’m producing. I’m surprising myself, really.”

Marie-Louise also found inspiration in watching others thrive in the workshops:

“Look at [fellow participant G__] who has disabilities. He really loves it and it brings out good stuff from him.”

CREATIVITY TO SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH AND CONNECTION

In Southwark, Vivienne (63) had been mostly housebound since developing an illness in 2016. Joining art:links brought a welcome change of pace, one filled with colour, creativity and connection:

“[We’ve been doing] some collages and just generally using colour to brighten up the picture. I made a small little bird, so I’m looking forward to finishing that.”

For Vivienne, the impact was about more than art – it was about finding her place in a community again:

“[I’ve enjoyed] doing art, which I love, and the fact that I’m part of a group and everyone’s very friendly and talkative – I’ve just enjoyed the company. I feel connected to the people I’ve mixed with in this room.”

vivienne – art:links participant

“It’s important for me [to feel connected to others] because I’ve been out of action since 2016 so now I feel part of something again.”

Vivienne also spoke about the therapeutic impact of creativity:

“Creativity gets out of you how you’re feeling, and you can put it into colour. I suffer with my mental health, so this has calmed me down a bit. That’s very important to me.”

A SPACE TO GROW AT ANY AGE

Each of these stories is unique, but they share something powerful: creativity as a tool for resilience, confidence and connection. Whether through painting, drama, or collage, the creative arts can provide joy, calm and a renewed sense of purpose. art:links is proof that it’s never too late to be creative – and never too late to feel the difference it makes.

Thank you to our funders: The Charity of Sir Richard Whittington [via The Mercers’ Company], City Bridge Foundation, Hyde Park Place Estates Charitable Trust and Westminster Almshouses Foundation.

MEET PATRICIA, AN ART:LINKS PARTICIPANT

Posted on April 30, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

MEET PATRICIA, AN ART:LINKS PARTICIPANT

art:links is Create’s creative arts programme with vulnerable older people who have dementia and age-related challenges. It aims to build skills and confidence, giving participants a chance to express themselves, connect with others and enhance their overall wellbeing.

For six weeks during June and July 2024, participants from Age UK Islington took part in visual art workshops led by Create artist Lucy Grainge.  

Patricia (77) told us about her experience on the project:

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

For Patricia, the path to rediscovering creativity came after a series of life-changing challenges.

“I’ve had to cope with quite a lot. My husband died, and just as I was learning my new life, I suddenly had a stroke. And then eight months later I found out I’d got cancer, which I’ll have for the rest of my life. Because of the stroke, my right hand is numb. It’s been very difficult. But I decided that you can either sit at home and accept, or you can get on with things and do the best you can. So I carry on as best I can.”

THE CREATE PROJECT

Each week offered a new technique, from paper weaving to lino cutting – activities Patricia had once enjoyed before her stroke, but had since felt out of reach:

“We’ve done various different [activities] that I really enjoyed like paper weaving and lino cutting. I’ve enjoyed all of it. The time has gone too quick. I’ve really enjoyed coming here on a Wednesday because it gives you something to look forward to rather than every day being exactly the same.”

“I was always artistic but because of the stroke I lost a lot of my ability. It felt really nice to do something creative. I felt chuffed with myself that I’ve managed to do some of the stuff.”

“I didn’t know I was capable of doing anything like this, because of how my hand is, but I’m pleased with the things I’ve done. I’ve persevered.”

CONNECTING WITH OTHERS THROUGH THE CREATIVE ARTS

Living alone, Patricia spoke about the power of connection that the group brought to her life:

“[Before this group], I didn’t know anyone here at all. I live on my own and people are isolated, really. Everyone was really nice; you don’t feel as if someone is better than you and you [don’t] feel inferior.”

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it and I wished it went on for longer. I shall miss it.”

Thank you to our funders: The Charity of Sir Richard Whittington [via The Mercers’ Company] and City Bridge Foundation.

Meet AYEZA, a young carer from ENFIELD

Posted on March 31, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

Meet AYEZA, a young carer from ENFIELD

Over three days in October and November 2024, Create musician Joe Steele and Nurturing Talent artist Josh Allen led a music project as part of our inspired:arts programme, working with young carers in Enfield. The project was funded by Backstage Trust and focused on giving the young carers a chance to experience the joy of performance, make new friends and have a fun break from their responsibilities.

We spoke to Ayeza (8), who told us about her experience on the project.

AYEZA’S STORY

Ayeza has been caring for her mother since she was five years old, assisting with daily tasks due to her mother’s limited use of her right hand. She reflects on her role:

“[Being a young carer] is really different. When you have to care for someone, you have to do lots more things than when you don’t have to care for someone. But it’s really good to care for someone.”

THE CREATE PROJECT

During the project, participants learned the song “Freedom” and explored body percussion:

“We have been using some high instrument noises and low instrument noises, for example bells, African drums, pianos, and some other instruments I’d never heard of. I enjoyed everything. I had never done body percussion before.“

“We were split into groups to make some songs. It was great [working together]. I feel like no matter what I did, I had someone to support me.”

Ayeza, young carer

THE JOY OF PERFORMING

Initially nervous about performing, Ayeza discovered newfound confidence through the experience:

“When you perform you need to have confidence, you need to be brave about it. At first, I was a bit nervous but now I feel like it is really fun, and I could do it more often. Once it’s done, you can think ‘Oh, that wasn’t so bad’.

I feel really confident now about [the songs we’ve written]. I think the audience is going to be proud of us. I’m hoping to get more courage to talk to people, and communicate, and make new friends.”

CHALLENGES FACED BY YOUNG CARERS

Young carers like Ayeza often juggle significant responsibilities alongside their personal development. In England, there are an estimated 120,000 young carers aged between five and 17 years old. They often assist with practical tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and providing emotional support. Without support, young carers may face challenges in their academic achievements and social interactions, and experience poor mental health and wellbeing.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORT

Projects like inspired:arts offer young carers a vital outlet for creativity and self-expression. They provide a supportive environment where participants can build confidence, develop new skills, and connect with peers facing similar challenges. By engaging in such initiatives, young carers can experience moments of joy and personal growth, balancing their caregiving responsibilities with opportunities for self-discovery.

This project was funded by Backstage Trust

EXPLORING CREATIVITY: VOICES OF YOUNG CARERS

Posted on March 31, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

EXPLORING CREATIVITY: VOICES OF YOUNG CARERS

Young carers often face significant challenges in balancing their caregiving responsibilities with personal development and social activities. Research indicates that they can be at risk of social isolation, with many lacking opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities.

inspired:arts is Create’s multi artform programme with young carers, giving them respite from their caring role.

We spoke with two young carers who took part in the programme: Jamie (14) and Noah (12).

CARING AS A YOUNG PERSON

Jamie cares for her younger brother, who has autism and ADHD:

“I [have helped to] care for [my brother since he was] six or seven. I think sometimes [being a young carer] is different [to other young people] because you don’t go out as much, like leaving the house, going out with friends. It can make me more stressed [at school] because [I’m] constantly worrying about my brother.”

Noah cares for his dad, as well as other family members:

“[My dad has] got really bad back, leg and heart problems. So, my sister and I always help him. [I’ve been caring] since I was six or seven. It’s a different experience [to my peers] because some of my friends’ parents are healthy and my friends don’t have as much work to do as some kids.

“I don’t often have time to myself [outside my caring role]. We’re always in the house because we need to take care of my dad. I can go outside sometimes with my friends but it’s rarely.”

Noah, young carer

Developing new artistic skills

In November 2024, Jamie took part in a visual artproject in Uxbridge:

“We’ve been doing a lot of things with printing and finding different ways to do prints with printing blocks, like making different marks. We did some prints where we were doing patterns on paper and then I did two canvas bags, which have prints on them.”

In February 2025, Noah explored photography with other young carers in Bury:

“I’ve learnt that you can do a lot with a camera, and you can [create] so many versions of things. When we did the light [artwork], we could create so much from that, and it’s just a really good experience.

You can use your emotion and show [through] your work how good your imagination is.”

THE IMPORTANCE OF CREATIVE PROJECTS

Engaging young carers in creative projects provides them with essential opportunities for self-expression, skill development and social interaction. Projects serve as respite from their caregiving responsibilities, allowing them to explore their identity beyond being a carer:

Jamie shared:

“[Projects like this] help because it gets me out of the house, gives me something to focus on other than everything that goes on at home.”

Jamie, young carer

“It just gives me a bit more time to myself as well. I’ve really, really enjoyed this.

It was nice working in a group setting because I often work on my own so it was nice doing something a bit different. It’s relaxing and it makes you feel less stressed.”

Similarly, Noah enjoyed the collaboration with other young carers:

“Working with the rest of the group was fun because we talked a lot and we all shared our photos. When we were in a circle and sorting [our artworks], it was a really fun thing.

We were a really good team and we always had really good ideas. We always listened to each other and we were always [inspired by] what the other person did.

It felt good to do something creative. You could let go. You could use your imagination with the camera and other people.”

Thank you to Fitch and The Quilter Foundation for making these projects possible.

Create’s 21st anniversary Gala Dinner at Mosimann’s raises £56,043

Posted on March 21, 2025 by - News, Blogs

Create’s 21st anniversary Gala Dinner at Mosimann’s raises £56,043

Last night, our Gala Dinner at Mosimann’s raised £56,043 (net of costs) for Create’s vital work of bringing the creative arts to those who need it most.

On Thursday 20 March 2025, we gathered at Mosimann’s for an unforgettable evening in support of Create’s mission. This year, our annual Gala Dinner shone a spotlight on the vital role of the creative arts in promoting mental health and wellbeing.

Guests were welcomed with a Champagne reception before enjoying a six-course dinner in the stunning surrounds of Mosimann’s. Throughout the evening, a silent auction and raffle provided the opportunity to contribute towards Create’s work – offering creative arts experiences that empower some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people across the UK.

This year’s Gala focused on how creativity can be a powerful tool for mental health, particularly for those facing complex challenges. With one in four people in England experiencing a mental health issue each year, access to self-expression, confidence building and connection has never been more important.

In her speech, Founding CEO Nicky Goulder MBE, spoke about the importance of creativity as a means of healing, self-expression and resilience:

“In a recent creativity survey that was commissioned for us, 93% of respondents said that creativity was important to their wellbeing. And, even though I run a creative arts charity, I was pretty amazed that it was that high. But 27% of people said that they don’t have the money to be able to fulfil that thing that is so important. And that’s really where Create comes in, because every project we deliver free of charge to the participants.”

“People on our programmes frequently tell us that being creative helps improve their mental health. One of our participants, Shabana, suffers from low mood and finds the creative sessions incredibly uplifting.”

“She told us: “Doing the artwork gives me moments where I feel like my mind is creating space. 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 art, it empties some of that jar.” “

“And in addition to improving emotional wellbeing, creativity builds skills, brings joy and reduces isolation; and it levels the playing field for people from many different walks of life.”

Shabana’s story is one of many showing just how important the creative arts are for people facing challenges in their lives, providing them with tools for self-expression, connection with others and giving them hope for the future.

We are immensely grateful to Anton Mosimann OBE, Mark Mosimann, and the team at Mosimann’s for their continued hospitality, and to everyone who contributed to the evening’s success – our table hosts, donors, and all those who participated in the auction and raffle. Your generous support ensures that we can keep transforming lives through creativity, giving vulnerable people the opportunity to express themselves, connect with others and improve their mental wellbeing. Until the next Gala, thank you for being part of this special night!

YOUNG CARERS TAKE CENTRE STAGE: CREATIVITY, SELF-EXPRESSION AND WELLBEING ON YCAD 2025

Posted on March 12, 2025 by - News

YOUNG CARERS TAKE CENTRE STAGE: CREATIVITY, SELF-EXPRESSION AND WELLBEING ON YCAD 2025

Recent research indicates that there are over 800,000 young carers in the UK, with many more potentially unrecognised. These young people often juggle significant responsibilities, providing care for a family member or friend who has physical or mental health conditions, or some form of addiction. Their caregiving role can profoundly impact their education, social interactions, and overall wellbeing.​

To shed light on their experiences and needs, Create has partnered with Carers Trust for Young Carers Action Day (YCAD) 2025. This year’s theme – “Give Me a Break” – highlights the importance of allowing young carers time to focus on their own wellbeing. Through four creative projects, young carers from all four nations have expressed themselves through puppetry, photography, printmaking, collage and more. Their artwork was featured in a special online showcase on Wednesday 12 March 2025, offering them a platform to share their stories and perspectives.​

GIVING YOUNG CARERS A CREATIVE VOICE

Create’s Founding CEO, Nicky Goulder MBE, commented:

“We are delighted to be giving young carers a voice and showcasing their creativity on YCAD 2025. The needs of these young people who selflessly look after their loved ones should be much higher on the agenda in our society, and it’s a privilege to help raise awareness of this through our longstanding partnership with Carers Trust. The showcase is also a fantastic opportunity to increase awareness of the power of the creative arts to empower lives.”

“Through our creative workshops, young carers have been able to develop their creative and social skills, build their confidence, and nurture their wellbeing. We are proud of what they have achieved.”​

Nicky goulder mbe

Vicky Morgan, Carers Trust’s Head of Young Carers and Young Adult Carers, said:

“It’s been wonderful to see Create’s experts bring out the best in our young carers. The sessions they run have led to some outstanding and powerful artwork.”

Vicky Morgan

“This year’s Young Carers Action Day is all about the importance of breaks and Create’s brilliant sessions certainly allowed our carers to enjoy some much-needed downtime away from their caring responsibilities. I can’t wait for everyone to see what they came up with.”

YCAD 2025 PROJECTS

This year, during February half-term, Create’s professional artists led workshops in all four nations. These provided 36 young carers with an outlet for their creativity and an opportunity to step away from their responsibilities. The projects were:​

  • England (Enfield Carers Centre): Puppetry with Create artists Robyn Olivia and Isobel Mei-Taylor​
  • Northern Ireland (Action for Children): Photography with Create photographer Adele Watts​
  • Scotland (Quarriers Carer Support Service Moray): Visual Art with Create artist Lucy Marriott​
  • Wales (North East Wales Carers Information Service): Printmaking and Collage with Create artists Julia Roy-Williams and Oscar Simms​

These workshops allowed young carers to explore various art forms, collaborate with one another and professional artists, and create meaningful pieces reflecting the “Give Me a Break” theme. The resulting showcase celebrates their creativity, resilience and talents.​

THE IMPACT OF CARING

Young carers often struggle to balance their responsibilities with education, social activities, and self-care. According to Carers Trust’s latest survey, nearly one in five young carers (17%) rarely or never get a break, while 40% say they can only take a break some of the time. Just 15% report that they can take a break whenever they want.

Additionally, the survey found that 72% of young carers miss out on school holidays due to their caregiving responsibilities. 49% said they miss out on friendships, while 46% reported missing hobbies. Almost two-thirds (65%) said they lacked time for themselves, and 19% felt they were missing out on their education.

One young carer shared their experience:

“I feel bad for taking breaks, and when I have time for myself, I’m always thinking that I could be doing something else to help out. It’s isolating because I can’t meet up with friends. I can text, but it’s just not the same. Everyone’s planning their holidays and trips, but I know I can’t go on holiday.”

Through creative arts activities, young carers not only gain a break from their responsibilities but also develop essential life skills such as teamwork, communication and self-expression. The YCAD showcase serves as a reminder of the importance of creative engagement in empowering young people and giving them a voice.

WATCH THE SHOWCASE