An art group in Weston-super-Mare has become a vital hub for residents struggling with loneliness and isolation.
The Serendipity Art and Craft Group, created with support from Alliance Homes through our ‘Communities Together’ grant programme, has become a hive of creativity and friendship.
Victoria Richards, one of the founding members of the group, was involved in applying for the Alliance grant. She says: “As a group we decided we wanted to meet regularly and try out different art and craft techniques. Many of us are on low incomes and would struggle to contribute much money, so the grant from Alliance Homes has been a tremendous help.
“The group is a good mix of ages, and the greatest benefit of the group has been the strong friendships we’ve formed. Some of us live with physical and mental illnesses which can be isolating. Through the group we’ve created a support network that’s helped reduce those feelings of loneliness. I’m now much more confident and happier. It's got me out of the house - even if I'm in pain or feeling like rubbish, I want to come!”
Group member Fred Brent says: “I’m long-term disabled and coming here has helped me to come out of my shell, socially and mentally.”
Alliance Homes Community Growth Manager, Helen Wheelock, explained how the grants are awarded: “Witnessing the positive impact of Alliance’s community grants within our neighbourhoods is truly rewarding. The grants start at £50 for essential things like books for a literacy group, and go up to £7,500. But what really makes our grants special is that it’s our customers who decide which applications are successful.”
Alliance Homes will shortly be announcing the successful applicants from the latest round of applications. The Community Together Grants will be open for next applications in the autumn. For more information visit our Communities Together Grants page.