‘Creativity in Transformation’ is a new collection of reflections, art, and music created by staff and people engaging with peer support under Transformation. Creative activities can help us to explore our feelings, strengths and experiences in a productive way. This collection of work shows how powerful the outcomes of creativity for mental health can be.
Transformation peer support is strength-based, and there is an ethos of mutual support and empowerment. We have seen people explore their strengths and mental health experiences through creativity and this project emerged as a way to celebrate and showcase the amazing art, poetry, and musical talents of the volunteers, staff and people who have accessed the service.
Creativity can offer lots of benefits for mental wellbeing, providing a mindful activity, a sense of purpose and a social space for connection.
Theo, the peer support worker who co-ordinated the project, said: “I am forever amazed and inspired by the creativity and ingenuity of the people I work with. Their art is a testimony to their resilience and talent – despite the many challenges they may face.
“After discovering how many of our clients utilise their own form of creativity, it felt only right to celebrate this. The pages of the collected resource showcase various contributions from our wonderful clients. Their work conveys the power of their lived experience and the nature of peer support.”
Some of the participants added:
“Art allows me to disconnect from the ongoing internal dialogue and connect with the world around me. I am able to express myself on the page and get lost in my paintings…”
“For a brief time, painting helps to quieten all of the chaos in my mind. Then, once I’m finished, I feel immense pride for what I’ve achieved…”
“Art gives me a creative focus outside my mental health issues. I use art and crafting mindfully. Creating gives me a huge sense of joy and achievement.”
What is peer support?
‘Peer support’ is a model of giving and receiving mental health and wellbeing support based on shared experiences. This is a reciprocal and mutually beneficial relationship; staff participate in discussions, share their feelings and experiences and learn from one another, just as the people using the support service will.
Under Transformation, we have Peer Support Workers from across Leeds Mind, Leeds Survivor Led Crisis Service, Yorkshire MESMAC and Health for All.
Amy Thraves-Connor
Keith Nunn
Becca Aitchison
