Tag: adult carer

MEET NAZANIN, AN ADULT CARER FROM MANCHESTER

Posted on February 27, 2025 by communications - 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.

MEET JILL, AN ADULT CARER FROM TOWER HAMLETS

Posted on January 31, 2025 by communications - 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 communications - 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

MEET DEIRDRE, AN ADULT CARER FROM NOTTINGHAM

Posted on December 20, 2024 by communications - 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.

“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.

“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.”

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.

Meet ADULT CARERS Elizabeth and sue, CREATIVE:VOICES PARTICIPANTS

Posted on February 28, 2024 by communications - Stories, Blogs

MEET ADULT CARERS Elizabeth and sue, CREATIVE:VOICES PARTICIPANTS

creative:voices is Create’s multi-artform programme that enables adult carers to take a creative break from their caring responsibilities, build trusting relationships with their peers and develop communication skills, new interests and confidence.

For seven weeks between October and December 2023, carers from Wigan and Leigh Carers Centre took part in a visual arts project with Create’s professional artist Lizzie Chapman.

Elizabeth and Sue shared their experiences with us.

Elizabeth’s story

“I’ve got an 11-year-old son who was born with multiple disabilities, so I’ve been caring for the last 11 years. I had to give up my job as he got older because I couldn’t manage all the appointments, being up all night and doing a full-time job.

“I’ve enjoyed coming to the project because it’s nice having somewhere you can go.

It gives me a sense of purpose. It’s nice to have something that gives a sense of achievement. You’ve got something that you’ve finished and you can take home and show people what you’ve achieved.
ELIZABETH

trying something new

“It’s nice to have different things to try as well. Mosaics and lino printing are something I never would have tried on my own. I enjoyed having different opportunities. There are barriers that stop me from being creative, like the time and money. It’s very expensive. Particularly if you’re on a pension or you’ve had to give up your work. The Carer’s Allowance is next to nothing, so affording to do things that are for you is not really a priority. I have really tried to engage with all the different Create project and found that I liked things that I didn’t think I would like.

“One of the projects I’ve made is actually for my son’s bedroom. I showed him a picture of it and he seemed really proud of it and he liked it. And he said he could recognise what it was so that’s encouraging.

“I would like to use what I’ve learnt here in the future with my son too. Particularly I think mosaics are quite good as they weren’t too difficult. And the lino printing is quite satisfying.”

socialising through arts

“I think it’s important because it gets people together [who] wouldn’t necessarily have opportunities to meet. It goes across class, gender, age. I’m not particularly sociable. I don’t have any family, so it’s just us on our own. I think I’ve learnt that I can maybe be a bit more sociable. I think I need people and connection a bit more than I think I do. It does do you good.

“I’m not always very confident, but I think I have got more confident as the [project] has gone on and I’ve been able to speak up appropriately if I felt I needed to.”

SUE’S STORY

“I’m Susan and I used to care for my son who had young onset Alzheimer’s. But he passed away. I’m also the next-of-kin to my sister who I think has got autism. She’s 81.

“It’s lovely coming here. It’s absorbing to make the things. It’s nice to be able to chat and meet new people. And it doesn’t matter if you’re fed up or anything because everybody will understand. It’s been very important and I’ve made friends.”

I think engagement with the creative arts is valuable. It really does help.
sUE

“Sue finds solace and respite in the project. The creative process allows her to escape temporarily from all that is going on in her life and find comfort in the supportive environment.

“Because you just literally forget for a few hours: usually you’re so concentrated on what you’re doing, your mind is too full for anything else.”

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

Meet LIA, FINDING CONFIDENCE THROUGH CREATIVE WRITING

Posted on January 30, 2024 by communications - Stories, Blogs

MEET LIA, FINDING CONFIDENCE THROUGH CREATIVE WRITING

81% of unpaid carers experience loneliness and feel isolated through their caring responsibilities.

In the heart of National Storytelling Week, we delve into Lia’s journey through creative:voices our multi-artform project with adult carers. We designed this to alleviate feelings of isolation and enhance wellbeing, enriching carers’ sense of belonging in their community and increasing their confidence in themselves and their abilities.

Lia has taken part in several of our creative:voices projects. We talked to her about her creative writing experience.

Lia’s Story

“I found caring rewarding but it’s sometimes very draining. But it’s something I wanted to do to give back to my parents because they sacrificed so much for us. So, I looked after them. And I enjoyed looking after them. I miss looking after them. I’m caring for my brother at the moment because he’s suffering from depression, unfortunately.”

As Lia reflected on her caring journey, it became evident that the selflessness she shows comes with its challenges, loneliness being one of them.

“Being a carer makes you feel isolated. The focus is on your loved ones, so it’s rewarding to do something for yourself. “

THE BENEFITS OF CREATIVE WRITING

“I enjoyed the project and found it therapeutic. It always brightened my day when I came here. You don’t know what creativity you have until you try it.”

creative:voices provided Lia with a platform to express herself and explore her creativity through writing. While it wasn’t easy at first to put her emotions and her mother’s journey into words, Lia’s determination and the support of the project helped her overcome the initial difficulties. Through this creative outlet, she found a way to rebuild her confidence.

“The creative writing was quite difficult. I wanted to talk about my mum and her journey. That’s what I hoped to do. How she came from Italy on a boat, not knowing English. She was quite poor. That’s what I was trying to do in the creative writing. It was quite hard at first to be honest. I thought ‘I can’t do this. I can’t speak in front of everybody! I can’t express myself! How can I write down on paper my feelings?”

Lia’s determination and the support she received on the project played a key role in her personal growth.

“But [the project has] definitely helped me to build my confidence. I’ve changed from when I first come in in March. My confidence had been knocked basically. It helped me build my confidence to be able express myself on paper and hopefully it will continue.”

Creative writing has had benefits beyond boosting Lia’s confidence, helping her to process and express complex emotions, and contribute to improved mental wellbeing.

DOING SOMETHING FOR YOURSELF

“I’ve enjoyed doing things for myself, which I haven’t done for a very long time.”

“Life is short, you’ve got to make the most of it, and I have 20 years left, so I just want to grow and find myself. Find my purpose. Because I’ve lost that. So doing these things has helped me to find my purpose again. It’s helped me grow. I nearly cried there, I’m getting emotional.”

“Hopefully it’s like a stepping stone for my next chapter and my journey will continue into doing volunteering or maybe other things that I’d like to do. “

CONNECTING WITH OTHERS

“I’m a quiet person. I’m shy, but I’m trying to do things that overcome that. I’m helping myself by pushing my boundaries. I’m trying to work on myself.”

“I feel more open [now]. I mean I wouldn’t have been able to talk to you a few months back. I suppose I was very nervous about talking to people. I just felt ‘I can’t approach people, I can’t talk to them. What have I got to say? What of interest have I got to say to people that they would want to talk to me?’ It’s a self-esteem thing. I think [the project has] boosted my self-esteem. My confidence has grown and I’ve enjoyed being creative.”

“It’s a lovely group as well. I’ve really enjoyed working with other people. I’ve enjoyed talking to them. I think I have spoken to everyone. It’s a lovely bunch of people. They’re really friendly and very approachable. I can relate to their situations because I was a carer and I am still a carer.”

“Caring is isolating, because you can’t always go out to do these things. But I’m so glad I did.”

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

Dharmesh, an adult carer from harrow

Posted on December 20, 2023 by Zekia Salmon-Hall - Stories

MEET DHARMESH: AN ADULT CARER FROM HARROW

Dharmesh, a 56-year-old GP, who took part in creative:voices Harrow, our multi-artform programme that enables adult carers to take a creative break from their caring responsibilities, build trusting relationships with their peers, develop skills, and boost their confidence and wellbeing.

Dharmesh opened up about his experience as an adult caregiver for his mother, who was recently diagnosed with early onset dementia.

He shares that each day brings its own set of unique circumstances. “There is not a typical day I have to say and in some ways that’s a blessing and in other ways it’s frightening.”

THE IMPACT OF CARING IN THE UK

One in eight adults in the UK is a carer (Carers UK). The impact of caring goes beyond a commitment of time and energy and many carers experience social isolation and a negative impact on their physical and emotional health. Many are unable to take a break from their caring responsibilities and 42% say that their personal relationships, social lives and leisure time have been restricted.

Create’s projects gives adult carers the opportunity to explore their creativity and self-expression in high quality creative arts workshops led by our professional artists.

DHARMESH’S JOURNEY WITH CREATE

During his journey with Create and navigating becoming an adult caregiver, Dharmesh has discovered the importance of creativity and how it has become a true blessing in his life. Over the past few months, the creative arts workshops have provided him with a much-needed outlet and have become an integral part of his weekly routine.

“I have since realised that creativity gives me so much more and allows me to give so much more as well we go away refreshed rejuvenated with energy and enthusiasm to do our caring.”
DHARMESH, ADULT CARER

For Dharmesh, creativity serves as more than just an escape from the responsibilities of caregiving. Having spent much of his life solely focused on hard work and traditional achievements. “It’s something I do for myself. I give to other people not always been that good at giving to myself. I went through a lot of my life thinking that this was a waste of time because the way I had been brought up was that I just had to work really hard and the achievements had to be either financial or in terms of professional status.” Engaging in creativity not only provides a break from the demands of caregiving but also allows him to give more of himself to both his loved ones and the world. It leaves him revitalized, energised and enthusiasm to face his responsibilities.

REDISCOVERING ROOTS THROUGH CREATIVITY

Creativity has allowed Dharmesh to reminisce on his upbringing in Kenya. “I was born in Kenya grew up in an extended family there was always music and laughter.” He learned the importance to belong to families, communities, and neighbourhoods and sees that Collaborating and engaging in various forms of creativity reinstalls these values. “We are such beautiful unique beings with such imagination and colours and love.”

watch dharmesh’s story

Watch the film to learn more about Dharmesh’s story.

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

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VOICES FROM ADULT CARERS AT CREATIVE:VOICES EXHIBITION

Posted on June 26, 2023 by nikita - News

VOICES FROM ADULT CARERS AT CREATIVE:VOICES EXHIBITION

An exhibition celebrating the artwork of adult carers in Edinburgh and Glasgow took place from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 June 2023, with a private view on Thursday evening. Displaying a variety of dynamic photography, the artwork was developed in a programme of online photography workshops as part of Create’s creative:voices project, empowering adult carers through the creative arts.

creative voices edinburgh glasgow exhibition

In attendance were participants, staff from Care for Carers Edinburgh and Glasgow East End Community Carers, and friends and family. Separated by a screen for two years, the private view, which took place on the evening of 15 June, was truly a special occasion. Carers who had worked together online throughout lockdown were able to meet and celebrate each other’s artwork.

during the project, his self-esteem lifted, he was going into the garden for the first time and his communication improved.
support worker of create participant

Family and friends

Shirley*, a creative:voices photography participant, said “The project inspired me to go off on my own for a walk after dinner on a really lovely still night. There was an amazing sunset and I was just playing around with composition and trying to remember what I’ve been taught. These photos were the result of that. Seeing my work hung professionally is great. My friend has been dragging people in and telling everyone who the photographer is!”

Shirley sunset phototography — creative:voices participant Shirley’s sunset photography

Adult carer and Create participant Susie* (read her story here) enjoyed Create’s photography project so much so that she took part twice. Susie was unable to attend the private view, so she sent her husband along instead. He spoke to us about the impact of the project on their family.

“During the pandemic Susie was able to join online projects and learn photography. Today I’m at the photography exhibition so I can see this new part of her. The pictures look so professional and she’s blown me away with the quality of the work she’s generated. It’s so artistic. They’re all beautiful colours; oranges and yellows, bright cheerful colours. I know Susie got a chance to look at the exhibition yesterday and she came out tearful. I’m very proud of her.

Susie's husband taking photos of her artwork — Susie’s husband taking photos of her artwork

I do not believe we would have the life together that we have if it wasn’t for the support of organisations like yours.
husband of adult carer susie

“Susie having a break is a reset for us both. I would never stop her doing any of the projects because we all benefit from it. I’d like to thank these organisations for supporting her, they really make a difference to our lives. I do not believe we would have the life together that we have if it wasn’t for the support of organisations like yours.”

“They’ve said that after the exhibition the artwork can be returned to the artists. Hopefully I’ll receive them before Susie comes back from her vacation and I can mount them on the wall. Whenever there’s a tough day she can look at them and remember what she has achieved.”

A photograph taken by adult carer Susie on Create's creative:voices Edinburgh and Glasgow project — A photograph taken by adult carer Susie on Create’s creative:voices Edinburgh and Glasgow project

The evening was full of touching stories. One came from a support worker who has been working closely with an adult carer and her husband who has brain damage:

“The wife couldn’t leave her husband. He had brain damage and was unable to leave the house. She wasn’t getting a break and felt their lives had become completely separate as they had nothing in common. It was going down a rocky road so she asked me what she could get involved in. Care For Carers told us about the online photography project they were running with Create. The couple ended up participating in the project together. To begin with, the husband was non-verbal but during the project, his self-esteem lifted, he was going into the garden for the first time and his communication improved. His wife attributed all of this to them taking part in the Create project together.”

Erica, a Co-ordinator at Care For Carers, shared why giving carers a voice through the creative arts is important. “In many ways, caring is quite an invisible thing. It’s something that people get on with and though it can be really rewarding, it can be really difficult too. Giving people the opportunity to express themselves, learn a new skill or talk to other people in similar situations is important. It might just be for an hour, but it’s an hour they can focus on themselves.”

Create Founding CEO Nicky said “It has been deeply moving to witness the depth of the relationships built online during lockdown, a time during which the lives of carers were made that much more difficult. The artwork on display at the creative:voices Edinburgh and Glasgow exhibition, and the stories that have been shared, are a testament to the impact creativity can have on an individual, and on society.”

*Names have been changed to protect anonymity.

creative:voices Edinburgh and Glasgow is supported by First Sentier Investors.

read susie’s story

HOW SUSIE BECAME A CARER OVERNIGHT

“For the last 14 years I’ve been caring. Me and my husband worked, we had our own business. Then, the accident happened. He had a heart attack stopping a crime and got a brain injury, and that’s where it all stopped. This is how I became a carer overnight.”

artwork gallery

Participant Shirley’s sunset photography

A photograph taken by adult carer Susie on Create’s creative:voices Edinburgh and Glasgow project

creative:voices participant Shirley’s sunset photography

Participant’s photography from zoom workshops

Photography from married couple who took part in the project together

creative:voices zoom workshop photography

How Susie became a carer overnight

Posted on June 26, 2023 by nikita - Stories

How susie became a carer overnight

Since 2021, adult carers from Edinburgh and Glasgow have come together for a series of online projects with Create – delivered via our Create Live! Zoom format – led by our professional artists in the artforms of photography, visual art and zine. Separated by 50 miles and a global pandemic, the partnership began during the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing carers together during a time of extreme isolation to develop both creative skills and friendships through a screen.

In recent weeks, the group have taken part in a photography project under the guidance of Create photographer Alejandra Carles-Tolra. On Thursday 15 June, the participants were finally able to meet in person when they attended an exhibition celebrating their remarkable artwork. We spoke to Susie about her experiences and what she gained from our creative:voices Edinburgh and Glasgow project.

“[THE PROJECT] GIVES ME A BREAK FROM EVERYTHING ELSE I DO.”

Susie’s story

“I’m 48, so for the last 14 years I’ve been caring. Me and my husband worked, we had our own business. Then, the accident happened. He had a heart attack stopping a crime and got a brain injury, and that’s where it all stopped. This is how I became a carer overnight. I was also busy raising our daughter and keeping the house. There was no time for me to do anything. Now, our daughter is 16 and I feel that I’m still young enough to learn something. I would like to teach myself further. Photography is something that moves me, so I wonder, could I develop my skills more?

“I don’t normally have a chance to do creative things. Often when I’m out and about, I would take a second to capture a photo with my phone, but nothing like this project. As carers, we’re just so occupied, it’s non-stop.

“[The project has been] educational. It might give me a chance in the future to do something else with what I’ve learnt. I really enjoyed it. It gives me a break from everything else I do.

re-awakening creativity

“[At these workshops] I’ve discovered this creativity that I didn’t know existed until Alejandra started guiding me. She makes me think about this task only and nothing else, and that is great for me, to be able to take my mind off other things and just concentrate on the specific task.

“After taking part in the project, I can create my own artificial light and do things that I never thought I could. I’ve learnt we can create amazing art with simple things around the house. It’s been a process of, “I had no idea I could use that” and then I try it and it works!

It’s very good to see what other people have come up with, too. It’s encouraging and gives me more ideas. It has made me learn new things.

learning something new

“Photography is something that I always wanted to do as a hobby, and definitely something I’m interested in. This project is just giving me a fresh breath of air and opportunity to learn, create and actually be guided to do things: something as simple as using the camera on my own phone.

“I can use the skills that I’ve learnt to take a picture of a flower or bird. It makes me feel better and happier. Now I know how to use the colours or change my position so I can get better lighting. It makes me feel like I’ve learnt something. I think it’s important for us to make the time to educate ourselves.

I have learnt that I can do this. I have learnt that I’ve got more confidence, and I feel more empowered that I can do photography.

It was great to hear the other carers admiring my photos. It was just so pleasing to hear that someone actually likes what I did. One carer said “I could have this on my wall”. It’s nice to hear that from someone else.”

creative:voices Edinburgh and Glasgow is supported by First Sentier Investors.

Meet Renee, an adult carer from Islington

Posted on January 25, 2023 by nikita - Stories

Meet Renee, an adult carer from Islington

During September and October 2022, carers from Islington took part in six, weekly visual art workshops with our professional ceramic artist Liz Jackson.

Adult carer Renee (57) told us about her experiences.

“I have been caring for my mother for 15 years. Taking on caring responsibilities was hard because I wasn’t expecting it. I’d gone through a divorce and I’d just come home. Something happened to mum and she asked me to stay. I was self-employed but that job disappeared because I couldn’t travel up and down the country anymore.

“Mum’s doing really well, and I got her through COVID. I got COVID and she didn’t. I was so sick I thought I was going to die, so afterwards I thought: ‘I need to change the way I live.’ Now I live a short distance away [from mum] and my brothers do more to help, but I’m still the primary carer. It’s not easy.

Telling stories through art

“I have discovered that I love drawing. I now carry a little notebook with me.”
renee, adult carer

“This Create project was an opportunity to learn some new crafts. We did a range: drawing, painting, weaving and clay work. I had a lovely time. I have discovered that I love drawing, and I now carry a little notebook with me.

“I made a little feathery blue and white dreamcatcher which is now sitting in my bedroom. It’s so pretty, but it’s also a meaningful ornament. I think I need my artistry to have some sort of meaning or purpose and a dreamcatcher is a story. How did you make it? Who were you with? The story lives, in a way. I don’t have children. I think the need to create something that can outlast you is something fundamental to human nature. I like creating things from scratch.

learning to play again

“I loved the project. It’s nice meeting other carers, chatting to people and just having a little bit of time for yourself. I also loved having a chance to explore and play and do things I haven’t done since I was a kid. I was told by a teacher I couldn’t draw, so I always thought I couldn’t. I’ve certainly said to that teacher, “you were wrong! You shouldn’t be telling children that they can’t do stuff!” Why should I be good at something the first time I try it?

“Working with everyone was really good. It was a nice harmonious group. I enjoy having people to play with. It’s that simple. Playing is fun and you often don’t do it. Life can be so serious and the challenges of doing what I do and holding a job, it’s just so hard. Having somewhere where you can come and play with other people who want to play and who are having similar challenges to you is really nice.

“Following these workshops, I now meet with two people I met at [the Create project] once a month. We eat and have a cup of tea and we bring our crafts out. It doesn’t matter what it is, we’ll just bring what we like, or nothing. It’s like a knit and natter class but it’s for arts and crafters.

“We’re all in isolated little pockets”

“Working with Liz was great too. She’s absolutely lovely. The thing that I really liked about her is that she let me be the creator I wanted to be. When we did the weaving, people were using the string and the wool, and I wanted to use ribbon. She didn’t bat an eyelid. When people were making small clay pots and I made a big one, she didn’t bat an eyelid. She believes in the right of the artist to create their own work, and that’s very valuable.

“Sometimes you’re pushed in very rigid ways and you can learn a craft but you don’t own what you’ve learnt. By letting me play and create the way I wanted to, I didn’t just own the end result, I owned the process.

“Projects like this help carers with our mental health. They give us somewhere to go. There’s a lot of fear. You don’t really know what we’re suffering because we’re all in houses by ourselves. We’re all in isolated little pockets, so unless we come together, we don’t know what’s happening for other people.

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