I started the art and crafts sessions at Barnards House back in 2002, and we’ve always had lots of residents joining in, as well as people from the community.
Our group meets every Monday for a two-hour session. Some residents get involved with painting or diamond art (a craft involving applying resin rhinestones to a canvas to create mosaic-style artwork), and some knit or do sewing alterations.
I always try to encourage residents to come along, even if it’s just for a cup of tea, as the sessions are important for building a sense of community. We can interact, enjoy each other’s company and admire the skills of others.
As a group, we’ve also been involved in Rwanda Relief Projects, stitching together a series of squares to form large blankets, which are sent to Rwanda for those in need.
Over the years, we’ve applied for, and been awarded, quite a bit of funding, including £3,000 from the National Lottery Fund in 2003. We were also awarded grants from Rotherhithe Charities and the Make it Happen fund. All of which enabled us to add to our toolkit and buy supplies which we still use today.
Southern Housing have also provided ongoing funding from the independent living ‘you said, we did’ budget for the past two years, in response to a request from the group.
Read more about independent livingDespite my health, I still carry on. I particularly treasure doing the diamond art, which is my favourite. It’s so peaceful and relaxing and we display the finished work in the lounge.
