News

Our Eastern Community Team recently launched an Art Exhibition and Social Mixer at The Phoenix, which runs until Wednesday 23 September. It is a wonderful celebration of creativity, connection and recovery, bringing together patients, carers, staff, supporters and members of the wider community. The event has provided an opportunity for people to showcase their artistic talents, share personal achievements and enjoy meaningful social interaction in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

A total of 16 patients, including individuals currently receiving inpatient and community support, attended alongside staff, supporters and family members. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with all respondents rating the event as either excellent or good, and everyone reporting that they felt welcomed and included. Most attendees also said the event provided plenty of opportunities to meet and connect with others.

Events such as this are an important part of rehabilitation and recovery. Many people accessing mental health services can experience social isolation, reduced confidence and limited opportunities to connect with their local community. Creative and social events provide a safe and supportive environment where people can build relationships, develop confidence, discover new interests and celebrate their strengths and achievements. They also help to promote hope, purpose and a sense of belonging, all of which are important components of recovery.

The feedback highlighted the positive impact the event had on attendees. Participants reported feeling more connected to others, more confident, more positive about their recovery and inspired by the creativity on display. Several attendees said the exhibition encouraged them to think differently about art and their own abilities.

One attendee said: "All of the artwork was amazing. I loved the Amy Winehouse artwork and the poems."

Another commented: "Well planned, lots of things to do and lots of opportunity to talk to others."

Others reflected on the inspirational nature of the exhibition:

"I am not creative but found it really inspiring."

"It made me want to take up sketching again."

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed artwork, attended the event and helped organise the event. The exhibition demonstrated the power of creativity and social connection in bringing people together, reducing isolation and supporting recovery. The positive feedback reinforces the value of continuing to provide opportunities for people to connect, express themselves and celebrate their achievements within the community.

If you would like to see the artwork, the exhibition continues until Wednesday 23 September.