Volunteers to assist in our creative support group 'Silvers & Carers'

Information about Imagine:

Imagine Therapeutic Arts is a community-based studio in Stroud, Gloucestershire. For over 15 years it has been offering a supported studio practice for people, with or without any artistic experience, who intend to develop their creativity as a way of improving their health and wellbeing. Through this time and a programme of structured groups and workshops, Imagine has developed an artistic-therapeutic community.

Some of the support groups focus on adults and particularly the elderly: since June 2023 we have been running a group called 'Silvers and Carers' – a free fortnightly supportive and creative space specifically designed for adults and elderly people with memory problems and any form of dementia, and their care givers.

Job Description: 

We're looking for dedicated, caring people to join our established team to assist in delivering the Silvers and Carers artistic sessions. Some experience of working with vulnerable adults is desired.

Volunteers are required to attend at least one session per month of the support group, on a Friday from 9am–12.45pm, and to join the monthly reflective practice session, where training is provided, also on a Friday from 9.15–11.15am.

A 6-month or longer commitment is required.

Tasks would include:

Help with setting up the art materials and clearing up the space after each session.

Assist individual participants in their creative activity.

Help serve refreshments during sessions.

A willingness to use art making within the reflective practice session.

Key Skills Required:

Some experience with different media and art materials

Able to work as part of a team

Good communication skills

Experience of working with groups, in particular with vulnerable adults

An interest in the relationship between the visual arts and health/well-being

Benefits will include:

Travel expenses

Training

Feedback from the Silvers:

“I enjoyed it. It is nice being in this environment, it’s really helpful.”

Feedback from the Carers:

“It is what I would call ‘constructive respite’ – i.e. carers are physically separate from the affected person but at the same time sharing.”

“The studio was an oasis of calm. As soon as we stepped in the door there were people who cared for us both. As a carer it is important to know my partner is safe and happy.”