Credo Creative Arts Project helping people back to life since Covid

A community-based creative arts initiative in Bromley is working to change the lives of people with experience of mental ill-health, writes Alexandra Causer.

The Credo Creative Arts Project is opening its doors to continue its mission to help people regain confidence lost since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The project aims to provide a warm and supportive environment in which people can express themselves creatively through the medium of ceramics.

It has been run by national charity Ambient Support for more than 16 years and is overseen by creative arts co-ordinator and professional ceramist Jehan Haddad.

She said: “It’s wonderful to see the studio busy now that we can finally open our doors again.

“It’s been an especially difficult time for people living with mental ill health, with many experiencing extreme levels of anxiety and stress.

“Our studio provides a safe and friendly environment while giving people the opportunity to be creative and have fun.

“The finished pieces created by the participants really are wonderful, it gives people great satisfaction and pride to see their final masterpieces and it’s a joy to watch.”

The eight and nine-week courses allow participants to engage in meaningful and enjoyable activities while helping to reduce the stigma and isolation surrounding mental ill health.

Credo participants have said that having a set time to leave the house each week where they socialise and learn new skills is extremely helpful for their mental and physical well-being.

The positive impact of the project on its students over the years was also recognised when it won the Creative Arts category at the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards in 2019.

Head of marketing and communications at Ambient Davina Sellick said: “We believe that everyone is unique and deserves to live a full and meaningful life in their community, regardless of age, health or disability.

“Our ceramic courses provide this person-centred approach and are open to any who feel they could benefit from exploring their creativity for an improved sense of mental well-being.”

The ceramic sessions operate from a studio in St Mary’s Cray, Orpington, four days a week for a small contributory fee.

Find out more or book your place on the autumn courses at https://www.ambient.org.uk.