ART has supported 100% of its vulnerable students (including wounded and injured service personnel) and o1250 vulnerable households during COVID19, and will continue to assist individuals and families most in need.

Traditionally ART has a history of success, supporting people with mental health issues and/or physical/ sensory/ learning disabilities; and wounded and injured service personnel, but during the pandemic we have further extended support to low income families and vulnerable groups such as young carers through a new initiative called 'Stay at home, Grow your own'.

ART has also put all its courses online so anyone can join in and learn while in lockdown, or shielding. Courses focus on supporting those who need help to improve their mental and physical health, well-being and reduce social isolation.

At least 85% of our participants go on to get involved in community volunteering activities, get jobs, enter further education and/or do more accredited training.

Why the community needs us
During COVID19 ART has worked in partnership with Local Authorities, Volunteer Groups and worked with Public Health Teams to address the needs of individuals and families who are low income, isolated, vulnerable and most at risk.
We have co-ordinated volunteers to deliver free Grow Your Own packs, seeds and compost, to households who need a bit of extra help during this difficult time.
ART continues to support people growing their own to help with mental health, food security, promote being more active outdoors, and we even get people living in flats growing with windowsill kits!

Our impact on the community
This programme of support sees participants improve their physical activity, mental health and well-being; gain confidence; and improves self-esteem. 
ART is supporting the increasing numbers of people who are suffering increased mental health issues or no longer have employment because of the impact of COVID19 in their job security. We are helping people to engage and learn new skills that will support them much longer term.

Supporting ART will make a huge difference to a wide range of vulnerable people across Essex - thank you in advance for supporting us!