Add your comments
News RSS feedNews
10 Jul 08Art And Health Projects Set To Flourish
A new project is creating opportunities for older people and individuals with mental health needs in Poole to get involved in the arts.
'Flourish' is a two-year arts and health programme for Poole, funded by Arts Council England 
and Borough of Poole. It will feature seven key projects giving people the chance to learn new creative skills by working with experienced artists.
The seven projects will feature creative writing, drama, singing and dance, as well as film and animation.
Project co-ordinator Rachel Millman said: "Flourish aims to promote and improve independence, health and well-being through good quality arts experiences. The projects will offer participants opportunities to develop new skills and get involved in meaningful creative activities within the community in which they live, while meeting new people and having fun.
"There will also be mentoring opportunities for local artists who wish to develop their skills working in the arts and health field by working alongside more experienced artists."
The first project has provided a mentoring opportunity for a local person with mental health needs. Nicola Tongue worked alongside professional artist Ben Trill to create the logo and branding for Flourish.
Nicola said: "It's been a very enriching experience for me. I've really benefitted from this opportunity, it's taken me out of my usual environment into more of a business environment, which I haven't been in for a long time."
Councillor Peter Adams, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Borough of Poole, said: "We believe that getting involved in the arts can help to promote and improve independence, health and well-being. Through the Flourish programme local people will have the opportunity to develop their creative skills and experience great quality arts activities on their doorsteps."
For more information about the Flourish Arts and Health Programme email: flourish@poole.gov.uk or contact Rachel Millman on 01202 262605 or Anna Shiels 01202 633971.
Directgov