FREE community crafts across Worcestershire have been bringing people together and brightening up local areas, writes Tanya Hewitt.
The sessions, run by Worcestershire County Council’s Adult Learning Division, enable people to develop new creative skills while interacting with others in their neighbourhood.
Participants collaborate to create recycled-material artworks which are then installed in public spaces.
The Community Craft Projects have already made a significant impact at The Oasis Hub in Worcester, The Pod in Bromsgrove and REACH CIC and Woodrow Library in Redditch.
The Woodrow Pharmacy displayed artwork from the project, which delighted staff and customers.
Wendy Beddard, the pharmacy’s dispensary assistant, said: “Everyone who has seen it has said how lovely it is.
“It’s fantastic and it’s really brightened up the area.”
New projects will begin this month at venues in several areas, including Astwood Bank, Beoley, Birchen Coppice, Warndon, Winyates, Woodrow, and Sherrards Green in Malvern.
Nikki Stearman, Adult Learning Worcestershire’s curriculum and partnerships manager, said: “They’re about more than just art and craft – they’re about getting people engaged, learning new skills, and having fun.”
Coun Marcus Hart, Worcestershire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member with responsibility for communities, said the projects demonstrated how neighbourhoods working together could promote positivity.
“It really exemplifies how Worcestershire is a leading light in community involvement, and our commitment to helping communities stay connected.”
Call Nikki Stearman on 01905 728537, email [email protected] or visit worcestershire.gov.uk/courses for more on the projects and how to take part and for further details on Worcestershire Adult Learning’s Worcestershire courses.
