Author: communications

Create CEO Nicky Goulder receives MBE in ceremony at Buckingham Palace

Posted on June 30, 2025 by - News, Blogs

Create CEO Nicky Goulder receives MBE in ceremony at Buckingham Palace

We are proud to share that, last week, our Founding Chief Executive Nicky Goulder officially received her MBE from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at an Investiture Ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Nicky was awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours List 2025 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.

The Ceremony, which took place on 26 June 2025, recognised Nicky’s extensive charity work, most importantly the impact that she has had in leading Create over more than two decades since she started the charity in 2003.

Commenting on the occasion and the story of Create, Nicky says:

“I founded Create in the belief that everyone should have access to the life-enhancing power of the creative arts, and I am humbled and deeply honoured to receive this award in recognition of the impact that we are making. I would like to thank everyone who has been part of Create’s journey over the years including our talented staff, professional artists and Trustees, and our dedicated partners and funders. Above all, I would like to recognise the tens of thousands of participants who we’ve had the privilege of working with. They motivate and inspire me every day. Access to the creative arts fosters self-expression, builds skills and confidence and reduces isolation.”

“It is a privilege to lead an organisation that brings so much joy, connection, and positive change to the lives of those who need it most. I am looking forward to expanding our reach into the future so that many more lives can be touched.”

Nicky Goulder MBE, Founding CEO of Create

Since Nicky founded Create in 2003 the charity has delivered 16,000 workshops with more than 48,500 vulnerable children and adults across the UK. The work has been recognised with 132 awards since 2012, including Charity Times Charity of the Year 2020. In October 2024, Create was awarded a prestigious Mental Health Award, recognising the importance and value of creativity for wellbeing.

Nicky has personally 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.

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 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).

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MEET ANNETTE: A CREATIVE:VOICES PARTICIPANT

Posted on June 30, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

MEET ANNETTE: A CREATIVE:VOICES PARTICIPANT

creative:voices is Create’s multi-artform project for adult carers, designed to offer creative respite and enable participants to explore new artforms in a supportive environment. Between February and April 2025, Create artist Liz Jackson led a series of visual art workshops at Enfield Carers Centre, where carers had the opportunity to experiment with a wide range of materials, from collage to clay. We spoke to Annette (64), one of the participants, about how creativity has helped her reconnect with herself.

Finding joy in creative discovery

Each week brought new materials, new techniques and, for Annette, new opportunities to learn and play:

“Today we were focusing on collage and using a variety of patterns and textures that we created beforehand. It was very freestyle, which I thought was good fun, so everybody ended up with something completely different.”

The workshops encouraged participants to move beyond their usual comfort zone:

“I really enjoyed using images from magazines – it’s not something I would normally do. I had never used FIMO [clay] before and I made a pendant and a brooch. I also loved stitching onto a postcard and I think I will utilise that in my own work at some point.”

No matter the activity, Annette found herself drawn in:

Every session I think ‘oh my goodness, this is so interesting, it’s so fun’. Whatever it is I’m doing I’m completely engrossed.

Balancing caring and self-care

Annette cares for her teenage son, who has autism. After leaving her career in teaching to focus on his needs, her role as a carer became a full-time responsibility:

“[Being a carer] has totally changed my lifestyle. I knew that I would need to be more on hand for him and the pressures of teaching were becoming too much in combination with what was going on at home.”

Making space to reconnect

Taking part in creative:voices offered something vital for Annette – time and space just for herself:

“Having [the opportunity] to come to these sessions – it’s like protected time. When I’m at home it’s very difficult to carve out that time but it’s something I’m going to be doing going forward.”

Creativity became more than just a distraction – it was a source of wellbeing and meaningful social connections:

When I’m being creative, it’s about just losing myself in what I’m doing, so I can’t think too much about things that might be bothering me or even really worrying me.

“I really enjoy being around other people. I actually enjoy being in an art ‘space’ with other people. The social aspect is what’s really important to me.”

The impact of creativity

For Annette, the workshops were not just enjoyable: they were vital:

“I couldn’t praise [these sessions] highly enough. These kinds of projects are just essential.”

This project was funded by the Smiles Fund via Comic Relief and Walkers.

WHY CREATIVITY MATTERS: VOICES FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Posted on June 30, 2025 by - Blogs, Stories

WHY CREATIVITY MATTERS: VOICES FROM OUR COMMUNITY

At Create, we understand that creativity isn’t just a pastime – it’s a powerful tool for building confidence, connection and self-expression. In the UK, research shows that people who engage in arts or crafts activities report greater life satisfaction. As we gear up to launch Create Week tomorrow (1 July), we’re excited to share stories from our community showcasing how creativity transforms lives.

Empowering SEND Students Through Sustainable Art

For four days in March, students at Ridgeway School in Bedford took part in our environment:matters programme. Working with Create artist Liz Jackson and volunteers from Octopus Energy they explored sustainability through art. Teacher Penny saw first-hand how creativity helped her students thrive:

“They’ve had a chance to work with materials and processes they probably haven’t used before. They’ve all been proud of their achievements and supportive of each other. A couple of them don’t like getting messy, but they’ve thrown themselves into it!”

For Penny, creative projects are especially vital in special needs schools:

“It’s hard for a lot of our students to achieve in a lot of areas, but they can all do amazing work in art. We wouldn’t have been able to afford this ourselves – schools are terribly strapped for cash.”

It’s amazing that people will fund these kinds of projects. The students just get so much out of it.

penny, community partner

Building Financial Awareness Behind Bars

In June, Aidan*, a prisoner at HMP Oakwood, joined Inside Change, our creative financial literacy project. Over four days, he explored topics like debt and budgeting while building confidence through creativity:

“It was definitely eye-opening. I didn’t realise how easy it is to fall into a financial trap. I’ve learnt that I can be creative. I’m nearly 40 years of age and I haven’t done anything like this. I suppose I’ve learnt that if you put your mind to something, you can do it.”

He also reflected on the value of the project for his wellbeing:

“Prison can be a very lonely, depressing place. This brought a bit of normality. I was actually looking forward to coming – which is weird. Normally I just stick to my routine, but I really enjoyed it.”

Finding Joy and Expression in Later Life

Between February and April, Joy took part in our art:links creative writing programme for older adults in Haringey. Led by Create artist Bryony Littlefair, the workshops offered a welcome outlet for Joy’s imagination and a chance to connect with others.

“We’ve written about everything from memories to dreams. I’ve done a lot of writing over the years, but it’s more stimulating to work in a group.”

Creativity helps you switch off the things that are bothering you in your day-to-day life.”

Joy, art:links participant

In a survey of 2,000 UK adults nearly 47% of respondents said that taking up a new hobby benefits their mental health. Over 21% said creative activities help them feel relaxed and 20% reported a boost in confidence and self-esteem.

*Name changed to protect anonymity

These projects were funded by: The Charity of Sir Richard Whittington [via the Mercers’ Company], City Bridge Foundation and Octopus Energy Generation.

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 carersgrant 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