Publish date: 23 July 2026
Creative connections sculpture workshops inspire creativity and wellbeing
Staff and service users at Halton Children and Young People's Mental Health Services (CYPMHS) have taken part in a second series of Creative Connections art sessions, this time led by local artist Ivy Kalungi.
The clay sculpture workshops, held at Thorn Road Clinic and the Brooker Centre, encouraged participants to explore creativity, self-expression and wellbeing through hands-on artistic activities. Feedback from both staff and service users was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the sessions as relaxing and enjoyable.
Funded by a charitable grant secured by Mersey Cares as part of the Halton Culture 26 celebrations, the workshops form part of a six month arts project that will culminate in participants showcasing their work at a local gallery later this year.
Read the full story on Mersey Cares website Second round of art workshops inspires creativity across Halton CYPMHS :: Mersey Care Charity
Applying for grants on your behalf
This project has been made possible through successful external grant funding – something the Mersey Cares team can support services to access if you have an idea you'd like to bring to life.
After spotting the Culture 26 grant opportunity, Nicola Hamlin from Halton CYPMHS approached Mersey Cares with a vision to deliver therapeutic creative workshops for service users and staff. Recognising the potential benefits for wellbeing and connection, we were delighted to submit an application on her behalf.
Mersey Cares was subsequently one of just 10 successful applicants to receive a Culture 26 grant from Halton Borough Council and its official partner, Cultivate Halton, helping to bring creative opportunities to local communities across the borough.
To find out more about how we can support you to bring projects to life to benefit patients, service users and staff beyond typical NHS funding, please get in touch: charity
