This Summer, Severn Arts delivered a series of creative workshops at Westlands Community Centre, offering young people aged 8 to 13 a chance to explore visual arts, music and clay in a supportive and inclusive environment.
The programme was shaped by consultation with local children and designed to meet a wide range of needs, including those with neurodiversity and those children transitioning between schools.
Across four sessions, 15 participants engaged in hands-on activities that encouraged self-expression, building skills and making new friendships. From hammering nails into emoji designs to mixing beats on DJ decks, each workshop offered space for confidence to grow.
Creative activity has long been recognised as a powerful tool for improving mental health. It can reduce anxiety, build resilience and foster a sense of achievement.
The Westlands workshops demonstrated how tailored, community-based arts programmes can support emotional development and help young people feel seen, capable and proud of what they create.
One child said: “Hammering the nails was quite loud and I’d never done it before, but I was good at it by the end.”
Another said: “My mum won’t believe I’ve made this!”
While numbers varied across sessions, the impact was consistent, young people felt more confident and connected.
Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health Team work with Severn Arts to support their creative work with young people in the county.