CREATE leads the UK in using creative arts to empower lives, reduce isolation and strengthen wellbeing. Through the Create arts wellbeing programmes, their professional artists work directly with children and adults facing significant challenges, giving every participant the chance to express themselves, build confidence and reconnect with others. Because creativity encourages emotional release and shared understanding, these programmes help people develop their skills while improving their mental and emotional health.
CREATE offers animation, dance, drama, music, photography, painting and many other art forms. Participants join sessions that allow them to explore imagination, tell their stories and gain new skills in an uplifting and inclusive environment. These workshops give children and adults opportunities to form friendships, develop communication and experience joy through collaborative creativity. CREATE strongly believes that everyone – regardless of background, behaviour, age, race, disability or circumstance – deserves access to the transformative benefits of artistic expression.
Their commitment to inclusion shapes every project. Their artists encourage participation, celebrate individuality and build sessions that respond to the needs of each group. Because of this, the Create arts wellbeing programmes offer powerful pathways to increased confidence, reduced loneliness and improved self-esteem.
The SJLCT Partnership and Long-Term Creative Support
The Sarah Jane Leigh Charitable Trust (SJLCT) values the impact CREATE has on vulnerable young people, especially young carers and those living in challenging environments. Our trustees agreed to explore a further donation for CREATE’s Young Carers’ Workshop Programme, building on several successful collaborations already completed. These workshops support young carers who often face emotional, practical and social pressures well beyond their years. Through creative engagement, they gain support, recognition and moments of relief from their daily responsibilities.
Previously, the SJLCT partnered with CREATE and Woodford Homes to deliver a series of workshops designed to bring young people together, encourage communication and build peer relationships. These sessions helped children who often isolate themselves in their rooms to reconnect, collaborate and interact in supportive ways. Because many of these young people experience trauma or instability, creative sessions offered a safe way to heal, engage and develop confidence.
The SJLCT also funded CREATE to prepare four young people and their care practitioners for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to South Africa. Through creative workshops, the children explored new ideas, built resilience and prepared emotionally for the experience. These sessions broadened their horizons and helped them imagine possibilities far beyond their day-to-day environment.
Such partnerships illustrate why the Create arts wellbeing programmes remain an essential part of our charitable work. They strengthen emotional wellbeing and open new pathways for young people who need consistent support.
Recent SJLCT-Supported Programmes
With SJLCT funding, CREATE delivered inspired: arts, a multi-art-form programme for young carers in Bristol, Ealing and Hounslow. Their artists led sessions in various art forms, and participants created work they proudly shared with friends, family and staff. These informal sharings gave young carers moments of celebration and recognition that they rarely experience. Their families also gained a deeper appreciation of the children’s creativity, dedication and growth.
CREATE also delivered change:matters, a project teaching young carers essential financial literacy skills alongside creativity, wellbeing and social development. Many young carers support their families in demanding ways. These workshops offered them practical knowledge, emotional support and creative outlets. They developed new life skills, engaged with supportive adults and built friendships with peers facing similar challenges.
Through all these projects, the Create arts wellbeing programmes continue to offer hope, connection and meaningful opportunities for children and adults who need safe and inspiring spaces. Because creativity nurtures imagination and emotional expression, CREATE ensures that participants feel valued, empowered and supported.
To learn more about CREATE and their dedicated staff, click here to download their latest update and newsletter. Their work demonstrates how creativity can uplift communities and why the SJLCT is proud to continue its support.
