Creativity That Connects Us

At Create, we see every day how creativity has the power to connect, uplift and inspire. Whether it’s through drama, music or photography, our projects provide meaningful opportunities for self-expression, discovery and joy. This month, we’re shining a light on some of the people behind those moments – participants, community partners and volunteers – and the transformations that can happen.

A Space to Grow and Express

For Arin*, an 11-year-old participant on our community:matters project with Salusbury World, photography became a new language for self-expression.

“I mostly learnt how to express myself with a camera, without words,” he said. “It was fun working together. Sometimes we were quietly doing our own work, and sometimes we were just having fun.”

Beyond the creative skills, Arin reflected on his wellbeing:

“[The project] made me quite happy. I think it has benefited my mental health.”

Connection Through Creativity

Carmen* (58), who joined our creative:engagement project for older adults living with dementia and poor mental health, found that participating in creative workshops opened the door to connection – both with others and herself:

It’s nice to share stories. It’s just a joy really. I really look forward to these sessions.

She also noted the therapeutic value of making art:

“[Creativity] takes your mind off things. And you concentrate on what you’re doing. It’s very good for [your] mental health. Because you’re just being creative with your hands.”

The Power of Play and Participation

For Teddy*, a young participant on our creative:tandem circus project at a CAMHS unit in Manchester, the project offered more than just fun. It was a chance to build confidence, joy and connection through learning new skills.

We spoke with activity coordinator Abin, who shared how this project benefited Teddy:

“He was really enthusiastic. He could juggle three balls and even tried the unicycle. He was interactive in every session.”

Abin added: “This project gives more connection between people. It’s also good for the connection between colleagues and the patients. I loved it too.”

A Volunteer’s View

Volunteers Fiona and Brian from Octopus Energy joined our environment:matters visual art project at Ridgeway School, working with schoolchildren with special educational needs.

Fiona shared:

“Each of the children contributed what they were able to. Some fish [sculptures] were quite simple, others really elaborate!”

Brian reflected on the creativity he saw in action:

“Art is an expression of people’s imagination. I think [the participants’ creativity] coming out in these different artforms is really good for them. It helps them to communicate some of their thoughts.”

Fiona agreed:

Sometimes in doing something more creative, more tactile, you’re using your thoughts, and that leads to being able to express yourself better.

The Impact of Creativity

Whether you’re a young carer, an older adult living with dementia or a teenager navigating mental health challenges, creativity offers a way to be seen, to connect and to thrive – 82 % of UK adults report that engaging in the arts helped them feel more connected to others, emphasising that creative expression isn’t a luxury, but a necessity for wellbeing.

*Names have been changed to protect anonymity.

Thank you to our funders Ashurst, John Lyon’s Charity, Octopus Energy and The Prudence Trust.