White Stuff and Create partner to tackle loneliness and isolation
We are excited to announce that Create is the new charity partner of creative lifestyle brand White Stuff.
The partnership aims to tackle loneliness and isolation among children and adults across the UK by supporting Create’s free creative arts projects, from music and dance, to painting, photography and drama.
According to the Office for National Statistics, almost four million UK adults experience chronic loneliness. New data from Create, however, suggests that creative projects can play a positive role in reducing isolation, with 98% of those who took part in our Create projects saying they felt more connected to others, and 96% reporting feeling less isolated as a result.
To support the launch of the partnership, White Stuff has created limited edition tote bags designed in collaboration with illustrator Tony Green, which will be sold across the retailer’s stores and online with 100% of profits donated to Create projects.
To help raise awareness of the issue of loneliness and the support available through Create, White Stuff has dedicated a window display in its Exeter store to the partnership, featuring artwork from Create participants and illustrator Tony Green.
Last month, adult carers in Lambeth came together to create intricate mandala designs in a Create workshop, each woven to reflect their personal journey and how art has played a role in their lives. These stunning pieces are now proudly displayed in White Stuff’s shop window, serving as a testament to the power of creativity.
Jo Jenkins, CEO of White Stuff, commented: “Creativity and self-expression are part of our DNA at White Stuff. Our unique, thoughtful designs are what stand us apart from the crowd, so Create is the perfect charity partner for us. We are proud to be partnering with them to help fund creative arts experiences for adults and children experiencing loneliness and isolation in the communities that we operate in. The UK is facing a loneliness epidemic and the repercussions can be devastating, but creativity can play an important role in bringing people together.”
Nicky Goulder, Founding CEO of Create, commented: “We fundamentally believe that people need to create. Creativity isn’t a rare talent – it’s an innate need that improves lives. When people are empowered to express their creativity, it helps them feel more fulfilled, develop skills, and improve wellbeing, connectivity and belonging. But too many people don’t have access to creativity. And often it is people who are already marginalised who lack opportunities to engage in creative activities.”
We are delighted to be working with White Stuff as the company’s new charity partner, which will enable us to provide increasing numbers of free high-quality creative arts experiences for those who need them most.
Nicky Goulder, FOunding CEO of Create
Tom, a Create participant from Salford, added: “I have learnt a lot. It has also lifted up my morale. Because the teams are so warm and friendly and skilful at talking to people, it has uplifted me psychologically. Doing something creative always feels good because it builds your confidence. It’s a very good experience working with the group because it stops you feeling lonely, we all help each other. It’s a very friendly small society.”
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