Greenfield Arts

Participant A is a new member to Greenfield Arts Men's Cree. He recently lost his wife and has been feeling isolated. Participant A had seen an article in the local press about the group and decided to reach out in January 2021. He mentioned that he would like to develop a more positive approach to life and make a fulfilling contribution to the group.

How did Cree support?

The group has supported Participant A in the following ways:

Weekly phone calls during lockdown
Creative prompts given via letters and during cree sessions
Box of Inspiration - a project with inspirational creative postcards and a pocket of hope created by the cree group
Visits to the arts centre facility where he has been able to socialise with the rest of the group
Signposting course on help to sleep
Access to enriching arts via The Greenfield Gallery - recent exhibition is Bill Hindmarsh 'People and Place'

What has the impact been?

During the weekly phone calls throughout lockdown, Participant A mentioned that he would get lonely throughout the middle of week. As a result of having access to the Men's Cree group, there has been a reduction in his loneliness and isolation. He has mentioned several times that he enjoys coming to the group and appreciates the company, getting to know everyone and enjoys being able to socialise. Through the group, it has given Participant A some focus and something to be a part of.

Quote

"You are opening my world to different and new things"

"Cree is getting me out and socialised"

Any other comments

Has been positive to be able to welcome a new member during lockdown and in difficult circumstances in which to bring someone new into a group.

The support and provision we have on offer appears to have encouraged Participant A and helped him to feel welcome and able to attend regularly.