The Creative Connections Wolverhampton project starts this month and will
run until December 2024. It is part of AIM Connected Communities, which is
funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Know
Your Neighbourhood Fund through Arts Council England.
Objects and artworks in the city’s galleries will be the inspiration for creative
programmes to help parents who feel isolated connect with others in their
communities, supported by community artists and community ambassadors.
The project will be held in the newly relaunched Family Hubs around the city,
providing local opportunities for parents to take part in creative sessions
alongside their children.
A community champion and community artist in each area will design the
programme with the aim of tackling loneliness and helping people to build
social connections.
The parents involved will also work with their community artists to display and
celebrate what they create in their local Family Hub, which will be shared
online.
Leader of the City of Wolverhampton Council, Councillor Stephen Simkins
said:
‘Arts and culture should be for everyone and it has huge benefits for our
wellbeing, which when we’re coping with the challenges of day-to-day life can
be easily overlooked.
‘It’s not easy being a parent these days and it’s easy to see how people can
feel isolated and lonely, but this project will bring people together in their own
communities for creative activities that can enrich their lives. It will also help
them feel connected and be able to socialise with others in a relaxed
environment on their own doorstep.
‘We already know that parents feel welcomed and supported when they
engage with arts and culture in the city, as they give great feedback about

their experiences. I’m delighted we’ve been able to secure this funding and
would encourage any parent to get involved.’
The eight Family Hubs have recently relaunched in Wolverhampton to
become the central place in each area where families know they can go for
support and social opportunities. Arts and Culture will work closely throughout
with the council’s Children’s services to deliver the project.
To find out more and to get involved contact Penelope Thomas
artsheritagelearning@wolverhampton.gov.uk