Holme Valley Sharing Memories

07850622918

We teach art skills to isolated older people, which they then share with other participants

We use creativity as a starting point to combat social isolation and raise self esteem and confidence in all our participants. Our core group of older people (who are all in their 70s, 80s and 90s) learn new art skills and then take these skills into other settings, working with children with learning disabilities, older people in residential homes and with adults recovering from mental health issues. Our work addresses issues of isolation by raising aspirations & celebrating life experiences.

Why the community needs us
Because we work with a range of groups, we help to break down barriers and increase understanding between our participants. Young work alongside old, and there is a sharing of experiences and value placed on the work that they do. We offer older people, who can be socially isolated by the environment they live in, opportunities to meet and mix with a range of other groups within the wider community and celebrate their lives and their personal stories.

Our impact on the community
Our core group of older people is only small (12 people) but we work with other groups from a range of different backgrounds and stage exhibitions which attract members of the public to see our work. In the past year we have worked with around 150 teenagers and adults with a range of physical and mental issues. In January 2015 we staged a wonderful exhibition called 'Through the Window' at the Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield to which all our participants were invited.

Volunteers needed

We work with older people, teaching them art skills and need general support with setting up and tidying up after sessions as well as supporting our members during sessions

What your gift could provide

£10

pays for refreshments for two sessions

£50

pays for a trainee to work with us for one week

£30

pays for our taxis for a week to get our members to meetings