Chilli Studios has received a welcome cash boost of £61,966 from Lloyds Bank Foundation to fund arts programmes for people with mental health difficulties.
The grant will fund the costs of an arts project worker delivering creative therapy programmes within the local community. The grant will support the studio’s team of freelance artists and volunteers to deliver a wide range of creative activities including photography, printmaking and watercolours.
Chilli Studios engages people who experience mental health issues through arts and creative programmes. Operating in some of the most deprived communities in the North East the studio provides art activities, peer support and volunteering opportunities offering those recovering from mental health issues the opportunity to improve their health and independence.
Bob Malpiedi, Founder and Chief Executive, Chilli Studios said: “With this generous award we are able to continue to offer a full range of creative practices, as well providing a safe, inclusive and friendly space. Over the past few years, funding has become more competitive and demand grown. Despite this I have witnessed the diverse community within the studio greatly support each other. Thanks to the Lloyds Bank Foundation we can now continue to provide a vital community based service.”
Paul Streets OBE, Chief Executive, Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales said: “With poverty and disadvantage high and rising, local charities like Chilli Studios are on the front line in their communities offering help to people who need it most. We are proud to be able to fund the Studio, whose work offer creative therapies to those in need is life-changing. We look forward to supporting them as they continue to make a lasting impact in 2018 and beyond.”
Chilli Studios is one of seven charities in the North East and Cumbria supported in Lloyds Bank Foundation’s latest funding round, which awarded £286,966 across the region, tackling issues such as unemployment, domestic violence and addiction.
Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales is one of the UK’s leading community grant-makers, committed to tackling disadvantage through small and local charities. The Foundation is an independent registered charity funded by the profits of Lloyds Banking Group as part of the Group’s commitment to Helping Britain Prosper.