Local charity promotes wellbeing through art

South Lakes MP Tim Farron tried his hand at charcoal drawing during a visit to a local mental health charity on Friday.

Space2Create is based at the Factory in Kendal, and helps those with physical and mental health conditions to improve their wellbeing through creative activity.

Tim met service users attending the WellArt group, and took part in a charcoal drawing session. He also met service users from the Deaf Centre who were attending.

Tim said: "I had a great time visiting Space2Create and seeing the fantastic work which takes place there. The organisation provides an invaluable service, both at the Factory and at the Kentmere ward at Westmorland General. There is a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, where people of all abilities can try their hand at being creative in a sociable environment. My thanks go to all the dedicated staff and volunteers whose hard work makes this possible. I would encourage anyone who could benefit from accessing these services to get in touch with them to find out more."

Tim also visited the 'Imagine Senegal' art exhibition by Claire Griffel, which is based at the same site. This is an exciting project to raise funds for solar panels to provide electricity in a primary to school in Joal, Senegal which is twinned with Old Hutton Primary School. Claire has visited Senegal, and is now selling art and photography inspired by what she saw there.

Tim said: "The artwork and photography on display in this exhibition is excellent, giving an insight into the landscape and vibrant colours typical of the region. The money raised by the project will make a real difference to disadvantaged youngsters in Senegal. It is great to see the effect of the link between Old Hutton Primary School and their twinned school in Senegal."