Slough CVS has been organising initiatives to connect clients with low to moderate levels of depression, anxiety, stress, isolation, and loneliness, to focus their energy on a positive activity. We  offer a range of activities via community link groups covering health, exercise, arts, music, dance, chats, environmental understanding, happiness get-togethers and more.
Activities include arts and crafts sessions, an opportunity to explore identity and self-expression in a creative way through the Connect programme, and cultural and social community activities, such as singing sessions. This helps overcome barriers to mental wellbeing, by enabling people to focus their energy on creative and positive activities. Â
“I am an ex-carer, who cared for my husband for many years. During the lockdown, I found my levels of physical inactivity increased and I became socially isolated so joining Isabel Hunt’s art classes has been really beneficial to my mind and wellbeing.
Every session is different, with new interesting topics to draw. I do believe that the arts have an important role to play in times like this – through offering help, promoting wellbeing and creating a space for social connection.
I have attended two sessions so far and it really engages my brain. I love it and would recommend them to anyone and I have made a few friends too which is always great to beat loneliness!”
“Music is so important and enables me to interact when I can’t communicate in other ways, as I have a language barrier. This is also the case for my husband, whom I care for, as he has Dementia and having a meaningful conversation can be very hard at times. This activity makes me feel normal and it makes me feel that I am able to communicate, be happy and talk to others outside my home, rather than keeping quiet and feeling alone. Sometimes Saida will play a piece of music that will get me up dancing, other times it might make me cry, but this is so healthy for me and my wellbeing. I enjoy it so much!”
Continue the conversation
