A new project that will enable users of Orkney Health and Care’s Lifestyles Service to participate in creative workshops and create a lasting work of art has received funding through the Orkney LEADER programme.
A local artist will be commissioned to work closely with service users, volunteers and staff, encouraging participation in a number of hands-on and interactive workshops.
A ‘work-in-progress’ exhibition is planned for Spring 2018 whilst the artist and participants work towards a co-produced art work for permanent display within the centre.
The Lifestyles Service, which is situated at the Pickaquoy Centre in Kirkwall, opened in 2015 and supports adults with a wide range of learning disabilities.
Antony Mottershead, the Council’s Arts Officer, designed the project alongside Ross Groundwater, the manager of the Lifestyles Service. He said: “We see this collaborative project as a valuable opportunity to explore further the role of arts in health and social care settings and the benefits to participants.
“Projects like this enable service users to participate in activities and opportunities that many of us take for granted, enabling individuals to express themselves in new and different ways.”
Supporting around 40 adults, the Lifestyles Services provides modern, flexible, community-based services to meet the wide ranging needs to service users. The building includes an IT suite, a multi-sensory space, an outdoor garden area and provides easy access to the sports and leisure facilities at the Picky. It promotes community involvement, aiming to offer people with learning disabilities opportunities to be involved in their local community and to become more independent.
Artists interested in finding out more about the project can view an Artist Brief on the Council website, or contact Antony by calling 01856873535 extension 2406, or by email for an initial discussion.
LEADER is part of the Scotland Rural Development Programme which funds economic, environmental and social measures for the benefit of rural Scotland. The Orkney Islands £2.5m LEADER programme offers funding for small scale, pilot projects led by the local community or that are in the local community interest, with the aim to promote economic and community development within Orkney. The programme remains open to applicants with Round 6 closing on 26 July (decisions due by the end of September) and Round 7 closing on 15 November (decisions due by the end of January). For more information on the programme visit the Orkney LEADER website. You can also contact the Orkney LEADER team direct at Orkney Islands Council on 01856873535 ext 2811.
