Open Arts South East Essex

Positive mental health through art Open Arts is a charitable, community based, arts and mental health service managed by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT).

We help people to improve and maintain their mental health and wellbeing, through creative learning, social inclusion and self expression. It's a chance to learn and practice all kinds of artistic techniques, and be part of a friendly, supportive and creative group.

Who is it for?

We have an open referral route for Essex residents aged 16 or older, who have either experienced mental health problems or are a carer. We also offer workshops to anyone that would like to help their wellbeing by being creative.

What does Open Arts do?

Our courses include taster sessions in visual arts, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture and crafts. Sessions help develop new skills and confidence. But most importantly, we offer a positive and productive environment that has been part of many people's recovery.

As one of our participants you can enjoy:

• gallery visits and creative experiences
• opportunities to exhibit your work
• links to further learning
• volunteer opportunities
• community involvement
• follow on studio placements with Open Arts at Garon Park Community Centre

What does it cost?

Some of our courses offer free places. Some are ‘pay what you can’. For others you may need to be eligible for a recovery budget, personal health budget or a carers budget. We can talk about what you'd like to do when you contact us.

If you would like to talk about how you might get involved, we'd love to hear from you.

Contact us on 07580 982 462 or email epunft.open.arts@nhs.net

If you prefer, you can ask a health or social care worker to refer you.

Open Arts is NOT FUNDED by the NHS but operates completely on external funding, donations and fundraising by participants, volunteers and local businesses.

You can donate online via our Justgiving page.