Art on the wings - A covid response

We're a regular provider of arts workshops at HMPYOI Feltham, working with young men aged 19-21 and have delivered arts programmes there since 2017. We experiment with a wide range of creative techniques and use different media to support positive mental health, self-expression and reflection through creativity. 

Many of the young men we work with have been excluded from school and have had negative experiences of any formal learning. We work hard together to build trust and create a productive atmosphere, where they can explore their creativity. 

In 2021 as Covid continued to impact the prison regime we were given permission by the Governor to continue our work directly on the residential wings. This had a positive impact on the mental health of the young adults and enabled them to explore using creativity as a powerful aid to wellbeing at a difficult time.

“It helps with my autism because I am doing something creative.”

“It makes me think a lot. The sessions inspire me and help my emotions come out in good ways not bad ones.”

Our work on the wings was kindly supported by the MoJ/HMPPS Clinks Covid-19 Response Programme, the UK Youth Fund and the City Bridge Trust.