THE Crediton Heart Project has been donated money to offer Ukrainian refugees living in and around Crediton the opportunity to attend its Summer Programme of Creative Workshops and Activities.

The benefactor, who wishes to remain anonymous, said that they have spent many years working in Ukraine and had a great affection for its people. They hope that the money will fund many places for Ukrainians of all ages to attend the events during August. 

The Crediton Heart Project is a local charity which created and manages the Crediton In and Around website and social media.

It was set up in 2018 to improve opportunities and facilities for people in Crediton and the surrounding villages and has a long-term ambition to build a new Arts and Wellbeing Hub for the town.

The Project has been awarded a £10,000 grant by the Arts Council to run an exciting programme of creative workshops during the summer holidays in a marquee on land next to the new Redlands surgery at Wellparks.

The workshops will be open to all ages and abilities and this additional money means that Ukrainian refugees living in the area will be able to attend without paying for their place. 

Chair of The Crediton Heart Project, Rosemary Stephenson, said: “The summer programme is the first of its kind in Crediton and we are very excited about everything it has to offer.

“We have been delighted to partner with Redlands Primary Care to make use of an empty plot of land between Tesco and the new Redlands surgery.”

She added: “It’s well recognised that being creative can have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of the people involved.

“There is documented evidence that it can have huge benefits for our mental and physical health.

“We’re thrilled that the Arts Council is backing our plan with a £10,000 grant, which will enable us to run activities over the summer holidays, bringing people together to learn new things and have much fun in the process.”

The workshops will be run by local artists and take place in a marquee from August 10 to 28. Activities include pottery, willow sculpture, collage, guitar, graffiti art, jewellery up-cycling, writing, drama, songwriting and robot sculptures. 

“Most of the workshops are open to children and adults, so it’s a great opportunity for families to learn something new together,” explained Rosemary.

Many organisations have also stepped in to provide support, opportunities and access to members of the local community. These include The Turning Tides Project, Sustainable Crediton, Age Concern, Crediton Arts Centre, CODS, The White Room Creative Space and Welcoming Refugees to Crediton.

A full schedule and booking details can be found on the Crediton In and Around Facebook page and website: www.creditoninandaround.co.uk .

Anyone Ukrainian or supporting Ukrainian refugees is asked to contact: [email protected] in order to book their free place.