Tag: Creativity

JOY, BELONGING AND A BREAK FROM RESPONSIBILITY: WHAT CREATIVITY MEANS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Posted on December 17, 2025 by communications - Stories, Blogs

JOY, BELONGING AND A BREAK FROM RESPONSIBILITY: WHAT CREATIVITY MEANS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Young people with disabilities taking part in a dance workshop as part of our community:matters programme. They are holding red and orange fabric in the air.

For many young people, the festive period isn’t just sparkle and celebration. Children in care, disabled young people and young carers often face additional pressures, from feelings of isolation to daily responsibilities far beyond their years.

At a time of year that celebrates family and joy, it can be easy to forget that not all children get the chance simply to be children. That’s why creative opportunities matter – not just at Christmas, but all year round.

Thanks to our supporters, we’re able to deliver high-quality creative programmes that offer marginalised children the freedom to explore, express and connect. In 2025, our programmes have supported nearly 1,000 children across the UK. Below, three participants reflect on what that experience has meant to them.

Feathers and fabric layered aroud flowers in the grass.

Confidence and connection for care-experienced young people

Emily* (16) took part in music workshops in Bolton through our:voices, a Create programme with children in care and care leavers. Working with our professional musician Matt Dunn, the group composed original music, played covers and built confidence together:

“I feel great. A lot more confident. Everyone’s very kind and we work well together. The project is really refreshing and it gets you out of the house. I feel brighter. [Being creative] is important because it really lets you open up as a person and you can become more positive.”

Having been in care for eight years, Emily shared how the project gave her a chance to connect with others who understand:

“Sometimes when you’re in care you can struggle to make friends because you can feel a bit down.”

“But [in projects like these] you meet other people” in your situation and you have a fun time with them.”
EMILY, OUR:VOICES participant

CREATIVE FREEDOM FOR YOUNG CARERS

Evelyn* (13) cares for her younger sister who has autism, a constant responsibility that leaves limited time for herself. Over three days in April 2025, our musician Filipe Sousa delivered inspired:arts music workshops with young carers at Bromley Well Young Carers Centre. Through the project, Evelyn had the chance to step away from those responsibilities and focus on creativity:

“We’ve made lots of songs and discovered different ways to make them. I’ve liked playing guitar and bass because they’re [my favourites] and working in a group to create an actual piece has been really enjoyable.

Young carers playing guitars and ukuleles as part of an inspired:arts music workshop.

Evelyn also reflected on the difficulties of being a young carer:

“Sometimes I have to be really careful what I say around [my sister] and I have to help her if she has a meltdown, especially if we’re not with our parents. I have to keep an extra eye out for her, especially because she’s younger than me. I always have her on my mind thinking, ‘is she okay?’

“Lots of young carers may not get the opportunity to do stuff like this.”

“These projects give them a chance to have something to focus on and they don’t have to worry about who they care for.”
EVELYN, INSPIRED:aRTS PARTICIPANT

Exploring expression for disabled young people

Jay* (25) took part in our community:matters programme at Brent Mencap, which supports disabled young people through inclusive, participant-led creative workshops. The programme empowers participants to build social and communication skills in safe, joyful environments.

Young people with disabilities taking part in a dance workshop as part of our community:matters programme.

During the project, Jay joined a three-day dance and visual storytelling workshop led by our professional dancer, Paul Smethhurst:

“We did the tent dance. And then we did some drawing [of our own islands]. I drew the beach. [I was] making textures and going to new places.”

For Jay, the opportunity to be part of a creative team helped build connection and confidence:

It made me feel happy and excited.
jay, community:matters PARTICIPANT

“It warmed up the body and made me feel full of energy. I enjoyed working in a team and meeting new people and seeing old friends. It makes me feel welcome.”

Why it matters – and how you can help

Creative arts offer young people the chance to express themselves, explore new ideas and build community. For those facing additional challenges – such as the responsibility of being a carer, the instability of the care system, or the exclusion that can come with disability – these opportunities can be life-changing.

This Christmas, you can help bring joy, confidence and connection to those who need it most.

Give the gift of creativity – not just for the holidays, but all year round.

Donate now to our Christmas campaign.

Thank you to John Lyon’s Charity and The National Lottery Community Fund for funding these projects.

*Names changed to protect anonymity.

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GIVING THE GIFT OF CREATIVITY: SUPPORTING ADULT CARERS AND ISOLATED OLDER ADULTS This CHRISTMAS

Posted on December 16, 2025 by communications - Stories, Blogs

GIVING THE GIFT OF CREATIVITY: SUPPORTING ADULT CARERS AND ISOLATED OLDER ADULTS This CHRISTMAS

Older adults taking part in a creative writing art:links project.

For many people, Christmas is a time of connection, joy and celebration. But for adult carers and isolated older people, the festive season can be a stark reminder of the challenges they face every day.

At Create, we believe in the power of the creative arts to build confidence, ease isolation and provide moments of light in difficult times. Through our creative:voices and art:links programmes, we’re working year-round to bring creativity and connection to those who need it most.

We spoke to Jenn (78), an adult carer who took part in creative:voices, and Myrium (60+), an art:links participant, about the impact these projects had on them.

This Christmas, your support can help us reach even more people like Jenn and Myrium, giving them the gift of creativity – and a chance to feel seen, valued and heard.

Rediscovering Confidence and Joy Through Writing

Jenn, 78, recently took part in creative:voices, our national programme with adult carers. She attended a six-week creative writing project with Greenwich Carers, led by our professional writer Henry Maddicott. Living with chronic health conditions and caring for others, Jenn described how the years of responsibility had dimmed the spark of her creativity:

“Being a carer, you lose yourself. A greater part of you isn’t there anymore.”

Despite initial hesitation, Jenn found herself enjoying the freedom and lightness of creative writing:

“I wouldn’t have necessarily chosen creative writing for myself, but I thought I’d dip my toes in the water. I came along and found the experience very freeing and non-judgmental. All of my [previous] writing has been under exam rules and bit solemn. This was lighter and the pace of the facilitation was brilliant.

“Some of my mischief is coming back!”
Jenn , CREATIVE:VOICES participant

New beginnings, new connections

In Havering, Myrium* joined art:links, our creative programme for isolated older adults, for a creative writing project led by our writer Justin Coe. After recently relocating and feeling unsure about how to connect with others in a new area, the project was a space for Myrium to feel like part of a community:

“I’m new to living in Havering and I heard about Di’s Diamonds. I’ve only just joined, and I’ve not been on a creative writing course before, so this was something brand new to me. We were put at ease, and it could all be seen as fun, with no judgement.

“[The project] has felt very caring and nurturing. It has been a great opportunity to meet new people.”
Myrium, ART:LINKS PARTICIPANT

For Myrium, the workshops became more than a creative outlet: they were a space for empathy, healing and laughter. Each session offered a gentle invitation to share, reflect and be present.

“[Being creative] has felt like something that was missing for me in my life. Once I got to a certain age, I thought “maybe it’s too late [to be creative]”. But it’s great to get out there and encourage people who think they can’t do it.

“Slowing down and saying ‘I’m just going to give my interpretation’ [through writing] has been good. Acceptance is important for mental health. Different exercises brought up different things for people. It could be quite emotional, but I felt that Justin was looking out for us. It’s given me the freedom just to go with myself and what I feel, what’s coming up at that time. “

Adult carers taking part in a creative:voices creative writing project.

“I want to reassure anyone who thinks they can’t do it: allow yourself to [do it] and you will feel encouraged and safe.”

” I think we will be good friends.”
MOLLY, INSPIRED:ARTS PARTICIPANT

The reality of Christmas for many

While many people look forward to festive joy, Christmas can be one of the most difficult times of year for carers and isolated older adults. One in 10 people in England are unpaid carers, many of whom don’t get time off over the holidays: 77% of carers say they feel more isolated during the festive season. Meanwhile, nearly one million older people in the UK often feel lonely and 670,000 won’t speak to or see anyone on Christmas Day.

For people facing these realities, the connections and confidence our projects create can have a lasting impact. For isolated older adults and unpaid carers like Jenn and Myrium, discovering a creative outlet can be transformative, opening up new passions, friendships and communities that continue beyond the project.

For those who may face isolation, exhaustion or grief during the festive season, having people to turn to and creative practices to lean on can make all the difference.

Work created by adult carers in a creative writing creative:voices project.

This Christmas, you can help bring joy, confidence and connection to those who need it most.

Give the gift of creativity – not just for the holidays, but all year round.

Donate now to our Christmas campaign.

Thank you to City Bridge Foundation, the Johnston Nijman Foundation and White Stuff for funding these projects.

*Names changed to protect anonymity.

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Meet Lucianne, Nurturing Talent 2025/26

Posted on November 30, 2025 by communications - Stories, Blogs

Meet LUCIANNe, nurturing talent 2025/26

Lucianne on the Nurturing Talent programme.

Nurturing Talent is Create’s 12-month. part-time professional development programme for emerging artists. Now in its 10^th year, the scheme was developed in consultation with our artists. In 2025/26, it is upskilling six emerging artists from a range of disciplines, providing them with training and experience to develop their creative workshop facilitation in diverse and challenging settings. Ultimately, it aims to upskill them to deliver high quality creative workshops with those who need these most.

We spoke with Lucianne, Warrington/Manchester based multidisciplinary textile artist. She shared with us how the programme is influencing her facilitation and artistic skills.

JOINING NURTURING TALENT

After graduating, Lucianne dived straight into freelance facilitation. But Nurturing Talent offered something new: the chance to grow her practice alongside experienced artists in more complex community settings:

“Since I graduated, I went straight into freelance workshop facilitation, mainly around sustainable textiles – mending, weaving with scrap fabrics, darning and collaborative banners and patchworks.

[Nurturing Talent has] been absolutely lovely. Every artist that I’ve worked with so far has been really supportive, friendly and approachable. There’s never been a situation I’ve been in where I felt uncomfortable or that I didn’t know what was going on.”

LEARNING FROM NURTURING TALENT

Nurturing Talent provides emerging artists with a rare opportunity: to gain hands-on workshop facilitation experience with diverse groups of participants, while being mentored and supported. For Lucianne, this has meant expanding both her creative toolkit and her confidence:

“I’ve learned so much doing this already.”
Lucianne – nurturing talent

“For example, I had never thought about the concept of warm-up activities [in workshops]. Since being here and doing these training [days], I’ve realised how valuable [these] are and I’ve started incorporating that into my own practice.

“I also didn’t realise the extent to which you have to be adaptable and flexible, and how that varies between different groups. That’s a learning curve.

Lucianna also shared how the programme has deepened her belief in the value of creativity – not just for others, but also for herself.

“You really have to believe in your artform, and believe that it is something that is beneficial to other people. A big part of that is you experiencing the benefit of it, and I’ve had first-hand experience of [my practice] as an expressive outlet for wellbeing.

“That’s why I am very passionate about sharing that with other people. ”

“Patience is [important] as well, approaching things holistically and compassionately.”
Lucianne – nurturing talent

THE IMPORTANCE OF CREATIVITY

Lucianna shares our belief here at Create that creativity shouldn’t be a luxury:

“People need to create because it’s essential to being human. There are so many things you can do on your laptop, but that’s [not the same as] really creating something. When you go into a museum, you’re looking at things, whether it’s cave art or pots, that have been created, and that’s something that we can’t afford to lose.”

SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION

Since its launch in 2015, Nurturing Talent has supported almost 60 emerging professional artists to build the skills, confidence and adaptability needed to lead workshops in diverse communities. Many graduates from the programme have gone on to join our artist pool and to develop their own socially engaged practices across the UK.

As Lucianne’s journey shows, the programme is about more than just professional development – it’s about building compassionate, confident artists who are ready to share their creativity with the people who need it most.

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A chance to be themselves: how National Lottery funding is supporting young carers through creativity

Posted on November 17, 2025 by communications - Stories, Blogs

A CHANCE To be themselves: how national lottery funding is supporting young carers through creativity

Young carers on a National Lottery Community Fund funded filmmaking project.

Across the UK, thousands of young people are quietly taking on adult responsibilities – cooking, cleaning and providing emotional support to family members who are disabled, ill or have additional needs. Many of these young carers juggle their caring roles alongside school and growing up, often with little time or space to just be kids.

Thanks to funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, Create’s inspired:arts programme is giving young carers across the UK a vital opportunity: time for themselves, a space to be creative, and the chance to connect with others who share similar experiences.

In Nottingham and Waltham Forest, young carers recently took part in creative workshops led by professional artists, exploring film and music. We spoke with Dawn (11), Emily (10), and Nathan (13), who shared their experiences on the projects.

Creativity as confidence

For Dawn (11) and Emily (10), taking part in a three-day filmmaking project with Create filmmaker, Jay Amin, was a chance to try something new, build confidence and meet other young people with similar experience.

“We’ve made a news report and nature documentary,” said Dawn. “It made me more confident using different techniques… and I’ve made new friends!”

“Before this, I couldn’t use a camera whatsoever,” Emily added. “Now I can! Not every child gets to make a film. It made me proud.”

Dawn, who cares for two siblings and a parent with complex needs, reflected on how rare these opportunities are:

“I love doing art, but I don’t get to do much because I have to care for my brother and sister. ”

“Projects like these let young carers be themselves for a few days. They don’t have to hide it all away.
DAWN, inspired:arts participant

Learning through music

In Waltham Forest, 13-year-old Nathan joined a music project led by Create musician, Joe Steele. Over three days, young carers composed songs together using drums, keyboards, ukuleles and their voices.

“We had lots of different talents, so [making music] was easy. We were able to do a lot in a short space of time. The most important thing I’ve learned is how to work with other people. Before, I normally just used my own ideas, but we were combining our suggestions. That was the most important thing.”

For Nathan, who cares for his mother, the workshops offered a meaningful break from responsibility:

“Sometimes it gets overwhelming.”

“Coming here lets me be with others in the same situation. We’re struggling the same way, and that builds connection.”
NATHAN, INSPIRED:ARTS PARTICIPANT

He also recognised the long-term benefits of creative thinking:

“If you’re not working your brain, it’s not going to be as creative. Creativity boosts your intelligence because your brain is learning new things.”

Young carers on a National Lottery Community Fund funded music project.

Small moments, big impact

At Create, we believe that creativity is a right, not a luxury – especially for young carers, who are often overlooked and overburdened. With the help of the National Lottery Community Fund , we’ve been able to run inspired:arts projects across the country, offering more young carers a break, a creative outlet and a sense of belonging.

“These projects give young carers something to focus on,” said Dawn. “They don’t have to worry about who they care for.”

“You can relax, focus and just have fun,” added Nathan. “And enjoy being with other children — because we don’t really get a lot of time for ourselves.”

Thank you to the National Lottery Community Fund. Your support helps fund projects like inspired:arts that give young carers a much-needed opportunity to feel proud, confident and creative.

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CREATING SPACE FOR YOUNG CARERS: A NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH HAMMERSMITH & FULHAM COUNCIL

Posted on November 10, 2025 by communications - Stories, Blogs

CREATING SPACE FOR YOUNG CARERS: A NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH HAMMERSMITH & FULHAM COUNCIL

Young carers taking part in a filmmaking workshop, gathered around a camera, watching their footage back.

This summer, Create was delighted to launch a new partnership with Hammersmith & Fulham Council, offering young carers in the borough vital time and space to be creative. Delivered through our inspired:arts programme, these multi-artform projects gave participants the chance to explore new artforms, express themselves, and connect with others – all while taking a much-needed break from their caring responsibilities.

With generous support from John Lyon’s Charity, young carers took part in drama and filmmaking workshops, delivered by Create’s professional artists Darren Cheek and Jay Amin. The sessions focused on building confidence, communication, and creativity – and the impact was clear.

A space where they just get to be a child

Letoria, a member of H&F Council staff, saw the power of the drama workshops firsthand:

“It’s been a good few days for them to meet new people and other young carers. Because they’re caring after family members for so much of their day, it’s important that they’re in a space where they just get to be a child – just free and not thinking about what’s going on at home.”

She highlighted how the project helped the young carers build confidence and friendships:

Young carers taking part in a filmmaking workshop, gathered around a laptop, watching their footage back.

“Everyone used their creativity and was able to use their imagination in their own kind of way. I’ve seen their personalities go from really quiet to more open, merging with peers and being more vocal in their presentation and coming out of their shell.

“If anyone needs a break, it’s young carers. It’s very important that there is good funding to provide a variety of activities [for them].”
Letoria, community partner

Telling stories through film

In July, participants explored photography and filmmaking, culminating in the creation of a short film inspired by the theme of “heroes.” For 15-year-old Jayden, this was a powerful and eye-opening experience:

“We’ve been studying the art of film and photography. I’ve enjoyed working with the camera, because I haven’t done that before. It’s a nice experience.

“I’m proud of what we made. It was a bit tough [collaborating with others] at first, but we pulled together and managed to make a very good film”

Jayden, who cares for his mother, shared how rare it was to access projects like this:

“I don’t have many opportunities to do [activities like this]. New experiences can free the mind and inspire you to do something else. [Being creative] felt relieving. Projects like this help young carers get out into the world.”

“Projects like this help young carers get out into the world.”
JAYDEN, INSPIRED:ARTS PARTICIPANT

Why this work matters

Across the UK, there are an estimated 800,000 young carers – children and teenagers who take on practical and emotional care for a parent, sibling or other loved one. Many of these young people struggle with isolation, mental health challenges and barriers to education.

That’s why Create’s work with young carers is so essential. Our projects give them a break from responsibility, a chance to explore their identity, and a safe, joyful space to be themselves.

This work was made possible thanks to the generous support of John Lyon’s Charity.

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“It Changed My Life”: Survivor of Modern Slavery Rebuilds their life through creativity and connection

Posted on October 28, 2025 by communications - Stories, Blogs

“It Changed My Life”: Survivor of Modern Slavery Rebuilds THEIR LIFE Through THE POWER OF CREATIVITY AND CONNECTION

Every October, Anti-Slavery Day reminds us that modern slavery is not just a historical injustice – it’s a current crisis. In the UK alone, over 17,000 people were identified as potential victims of modern slavery in 2023. Many remain hidden in plain sight, enduring horrific abuse and exploitation.

Through Art is Freedom, an annual campaign from the charity Hestia and its partners, survivors of modern slavery are enabled to reclaim their voices through creativity.

Earlier this year, thanks to support from multinational law firm Ashurst, Create was proud to collaborate with Hestia to deliver a series of painting workshops led by our professional artist Alba, culminating in a public exhibition in five locations across London for Anti-Slavery Day.

In this blog, we’re honoured to share the voice of one participant who took part in the project – a survivor of modern slavery who chose to tell their story anonymously, in their own words.

Content warning: This blog contains references to modern slavery, including forced labour, physical abuse, and trauma, which some readers may find distressing. Reader discretion is advised.

HESTIA AND CREATE

“I was onboarded as a client with Hestia in July of last year.

“This was after being rescued by police from a modern-day slavery situation. Hestia were there for me from the beginning. The process with a lot of modern-day slavery situations is that the police fill out a National Referral Mechanism (NRM), a mechanism by which the Home Office [gets involved] specifically for those who have been affected by modern-day slavery.

“I was contacted by them and was moved to a safe house first, then moved to temporary accommodation. From then, within a week of my rescue, Hestia assigned me an advocate.

“Advocates are the frontline individuals who [are] responsible for your situation and try to guide you through the NRM. They also [make you aware of] events and volunteering activities.”

Thanks to the support of multinational law firm Ashurst, we work with Hestia each year to deliver a series of weekly creative workshops for survivors in their care. These sessions offer a supportive space where participants can explore self-expression, build connections and skills, and process trauma through the creative arts.

“That’s how I got involved with Create. My advocate had recommended a workshop for me because I spent almost 11 months confined to my studio flat, not interacting with anyone, not doing anything outside answering calls from my advocate.”

the workshops were a really good way of me getting back into society because I’d isolated myself from the world after going through this traumatic experience.”
ART IS FREEDOM Participant

MODERN-DAY SLAVERY EXPERIENCE

“I was forced into a modern-day slavery situation, where I was made to do work for a restaurant/ fast food company in horrible conditions. I was forced to do long hours with shifts lasting between 12 hours -14 hours on a daily basis with no breaks. During my confinement I was tortured, burnt and beaten repeatedly. This situation lasted for almost two months before I was rescued by the Metropolitan Police.”

ART IS FREEDOM PROJECT

Delivered over 10 weeks by Create, the Art is Freedom workshops were designed not just to teach new skills but to create a supportive community space for healing.

“Create [delivers] an Art is Freedom programme with Hestia that offers a variety of artistic workshops. They give victims a means of creatively expressing their experiences. There’s a social element as well.

“[When I started the project] it was the darkest period of my life. I was deeply depressed. I was scared of leaving the house because the criminals who did what they did to me were still around. I was in fear of my life. So, I just stayed at home. I didn’t speak to anyone. I didn’t do anything. It was a hermit-like existence.

“The first session was genuinely the first time I had [gone further than 10 minutes outside] my house in 11 months. I was super nervous. I didn’t know who would be there, what it would be like.

“But it was amazing. The [Create and Hestia staff] are amazing at making people feel comfortable and included. It felt good because everyone had gone through similar experiences. And you didn’t feel like you had to hide or explain yourself. You could just be.

“Everyone there seemed like, whilst they were painting, they were releasing so much stress, so much anxiety.”

There was a calming peace about the whole environment. It felt like a safe space. It was an amazing experience.
ART IS FREEDOM Participant

Led by our professional artist Alba, the participants explored new techniques each week, responding to the theme ‘Seen and Heard’.

“I’ve always been into art. I’ve done bits and bobs, but I’ve never spent as much time as I did with the Create project. There was a great educational side to it as well. Every week we learned [about] new artists, how they express themselves, different techniques. Alba was amazing. I learned more [on this project] than I ever did in art GCSE!

“Some of the pieces that I made [were] a way of expressing the things that I’ve gone through. The genre of abstract expressionism worked really well for me. A lot of the experiences are very difficult to be exact about, because it’s like a fog of pain and trauma that you’re in. That’s reflected a lot in my work.

“It just felt so right to express in that way”

Each piece for me was my way of letting things go in a way. And it helped me a lot.
art is freedom participant

HEALING THROUGH CREATIVITY

“After the 10-week programme, everything in my life started to click back to normal. I was being more friendly with people. I was socialising more, doing more things in the community, even simple things like doing the groceries. It felt normal to me for the first time in a long time.

“My pieces were like a therapy session. I can honestly say that [the project] changed my life. I would be a very different person without it.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

More than 50 million people are living in modern slavery worldwide today. Projects like Art is Freedom demonstrate how creativity can be a powerful tool in recovery and long-term rehabilitation, not only rebuilding confidence, but restoring agency and hope.

“We sometimes get bogged down with achieving arbitrary targets – certificates, accomplishments, wages etc. But when we die, we die – those things don’t come with us. The best thing about life is exploring as much as you can about the human experience.

“Creative expression is often overlooked, but it solves a lot of problems. It’s a powerful way of expressing ideas as a human being.

“We’re so interconnected – we can all be victims at some point. We can actually do something about it. With issues like modern day slavery and human trafficking, more needs to be done about it because people are unnecessarily suffering.

“The more exposure [this has], the more we can get results. Hopefully through the efforts of Create and Hestia, fewer people every year [will] get involved in these situations.”

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FINDING Creativity and Connection After Modern Slavery

Posted on October 21, 2025 by communications - Stories, Blogs

FINDING Creativity and Connection After Modern Slavery

Art is Freedom is a powerful initiative developed by the charity Hestia, offering survivors of modern slavery a platform to express themselves creatively and reclaim their voices. Delivered in collaboration with a range of partners, the project culminates in an annual exhibition marking Anti-Slavery Day.

Earlier this year, thanks to support from multinational law firm Ashurst, Create was proud to collaborate with Hestia to deliver a series of painting workshops led by our professional artist Alba. These enabled 16 participants to explore the theme ‘Seen and Heard’ through visual art.

One participant, who remains anonymous, shared their reflections on the experience – from learning new artistic techniques to rediscovering a sense of purpose and pride.

CREATIVITY AND INSPIRATION

“I took part in choosing the theme this year with Hestia. So I really wanted to create something to respond to ‘Seen and Heard’. [I was] inspired by loads of things around me.”

The painting workshops encouraged creative experimentation through a wide range of techniques and materials.

“Alba introduced us to many techniques – we used different types of paints and brushes and created our own brushes and collage. I liked that Alba has so many tricks up her sleeve. She has so many tools – her warm-up sessions always amaze me. It makes us interactive and it opened up my horizons. I’ve never thought of using shaving foams or natural materials to [make art]. I had loads of fun.”

Exploring art in new ways offered more than just creative insight – it sparked joy, imagination and discovery in a space designed for healing and connection.

THE POWER OF CREATIVITY

Art is often a mirror – but it’s also a tool. For those dealing with trauma, it can provide a vital sense of identity and achievement.

“[Being creative] proves that I have the ability to do something else and really to achieve something for myself. I’m proud to see my work in all these different venues.“

It makes me feel like [my life] is not all about dealing with my legal case all the time.
ART IS FREEDOM Participant

Equally important was the chance to build community with others who shared similar experiences.

“[The other participants] have so much thought and they use colours differently and [have] different expressive tools. I like the vibe, people doing things together. I’m really looking forward to seeing how people grow.”

THE IMPORTANCE OF HESTIA

Through Hestia, survivors of modern slavery are not only supported practically, but emotionally – and creatively.

“Hestia has been [helpful] in so many different ways, like financial support, training and art [programmes]. It completely changed my life and it made me feel useful again.”

A CONTINUED NEED FOR SUPPORT

While modern slavery affects people of all ages, over 50% of referrals into the National Referral Mechanism each year are adults – meaning more than half of potential victims are adults with complex recovery needs.

Art-based programmes like Art is Freedom offer vital spaces where survivors can heal, express, and rebuild identity beyond their experiences of exploitation.

Create is proud to collaborate with Ashurst and Hestia on Art is Freedom, ensuring that survivors are not only supported, but celebrated for their courage, creativity and resilience.

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CREATIVITY AND CARE: BUILDING CONFIDENCE THROUGH CONNECTION

Posted on September 30, 2025 by communications - Stories, Blogs

cREATIVITY AND CARE: BUILDING CONFIDENCE THROUGH CONNECTION

Across the UK, nearly 83,000 children are in care, many of whom have faced significant trauma, loss or instability. As these young people navigate complex systems and transitions, opportunities to build confidence, connect with others and develop life skills become vital. At Create, we know the creative arts can play a powerful role in nurturing these outcomes.

This was highlighted through our community:matters project with Brent Council, where children in care and care leavers explored drama and music workshops.

finding belonging through drama

Over three days in April 2025, Create artist Sophie Bentinck Craff led immersive drama workshops with a group of care-experience young people.

One participant, Naomi (18), shared the impact:

“Because I have autism and possibly ADHD, I already have lots of pent-up energy that I can’t get rid of. So having an outlet [in drama workshops] to do that, where it’s safe and controlled, it does help and also it is just really fun.”

From games like Wink Murder to creating characters and costumes, the workshops became a space for creativity, expression and connection.

“We’re all of a similar age, we have these little check-ins [with each other] and it’s good hearing about how other people have been doing.”

Navigating the care system often involves uncertainty and disruption. For Naomi, the chance to meet peers who shared similar experiences was hugely important:

“The system Is very constricting in a way, so these events where we can get together with other people who have gone through similar stuff are really important.”

Being here, [we are] able to have a community.
naomi – community:matters participant

Music as a tool for healing

Meanwhile, Lakshmi (23), a care leaver, took part in six weeks of music workshops led by Create musician Noga Ritter. With no previous experience beyond playing guitar, Lakshmi learnt to write lyrics, harmonise and use music software to record original work:

“[Now] I know about different voices and high and low harmonies. When I’m playing guitar, now I can put my vocals [over] it. [I’ve learnt] that I can create music. I can create lyrics. They don’t need to make sense – you can take a few words, bundle them together and go for it.”

The workshops also provided space to unwind during a stressful exam period:

“It felt amazing and relaxing [to write and record a song]. Recently I had my exams so it was a difficult period but coming here was tension-free. These two hours every week have really helped to calm my mind.”

And, critically, they helped Lakshmi reclaim a long-held creative dream:

“I wanted to sing and dance [when I was young]. And it didn’t [happen] because obviously I had my household situation and there were some financial issues as well. Now I’m looking for a job and I don’t have a chance to do creative [activities].”

“I appreciate that [Create] has done this for me because I have not been able to create since childhood.”
lakshmi – community:matters participant

At Create, we’re proud to work alongside care leavers to co-create spaces where they can express themselves freely, build confidence and find joy in connection.

community:matters Brent Council is funded by John Lyon’s Charity.

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WHY CREATIVITY MATTERS: VOICES FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Posted on June 30, 2025 by communications - 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.

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 communications - 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