For many of us, this group has become a happy place - a space to relax, share experiences, and learn together.

This group is free for all members to join, everything is provided so no one is having to spend any money in these tough times. All members were complete beginners when we joined. With the support of our patient and encouraging tutor, we have all developed new skills in art and grown in confidence. Beyond learning techniques, we have also experienced the therapeutic benefits of creativity, which has had a positive impact on our wellbeing and mental health.

With continued support this project will improve wellbeing by reducing loneliness and offering us a positive, therapeutic activity. Build confidence and skills by supporting us to develop our creativity and try new artistic techniques all at our own pace. Strengthen our community connections by bringing people together from diverse backgrounds which allows us to build friendships and support networks. Our group is inclusive for all and we have a diverse group.

We are aiming to put on an exhibition at the end of the year to display all our works, showing our development this we are excited about and can't wait to show off our work.

We would love for this group to continue however the cost of Art materials is pricey. To enable us to continue we would like to make an application for the full amount of £1000 this will enable the group to stay running for another year.

Resources we would like to buy are:

online from Art Discount: £537.93

winsor and newton various sized canvas boards x 24 £180.70

Artdiscount economy standard canvases 10"x10"multipack of 48 £134.07

Artdiscount economy standard canvas 16"x16" multipack of 2 x 12 £125.16

Seawhitte student canvases 16"x20" for acrylic and oils multipack of 15 x2 £98.00

The range: £275.76

Paint brush set of 12 x 24 - £95.76

Daler rowney watercolour set of 24 x 24 - £180

Amazon:£186

Paint by number canvas various £186

Our project will run fortnightly brunch sessions for around 20 people, offering a taste of Middle Eastern cooking such as kebabs and falafel. These meals will bring together people from Syria, other communities, and local residents to share food, build friendships, and promote cultural exchange. Alongside the food events, we will organise football sessions for adults, combining sport and social activities to strengthen community bonds.

• Food for brunch sessions (approx. £50 per session × 10 sessions) = £500

• Football pitch hire (approx. £40 per session × 10 sessions) = £400

• Refreshments for football sessions = £100

Total = £1,000