Grant secured thanks to Council help

An art group which helps people with mental health issues has secured a £10,000 lottery grant with the help of Charnwood Borough Council.

Albert Street Artists has been awarded the money from the Big Lottery Fund’s Awards for All programme to help cover running costs.

The group, which has a studio in Southfield Road, Loughborough, is a self-help arts therapy group for adults who have all experienced mental health issues.

The Council offers its own range of grants but can also advise groups on how to secure funding from other sources.

Paul Dexter, of Albert Street Artists, said: “This year’s funding has been secured with support from Charnwood Borough Council.They helped put us in touch with The Big Lottery Fund and it is a huge relief that we have been successful.

“For the 20-plus years we have been running, funding has always been an issue and at times we have struggled to keep going. All our members are very pleased that they can focus on producing great artwork rather than worrying about funding.”

The group was helped with its bid by the Council’s voluntary and community sector development officer, Nabillah Patel.

Nabillah said: “We are delighted Albert Street Artists has secured this funding as the group provides a very valuable service to its members.

“We were happy to help them put their bid together and we are delighted that it has been approved.

“The successful bid highlights how the Council can support community groups and projects whose work clearly benefits residents in Charnwood.

“We’re happy to talk to groups about how they can apply for funding from the Council or other sources. If anyone is interested in finding out more then please get in touch.”

The aim of the Albert Street Artists is to increase people’s confidence, help them cope with mental health issues and increase opportunities.

The group provides emotional support in a structured and creative environment at the studio three times a week. Members produce a calendar showcasing their work each year and hold exhibitions.

Each year the Council gives around £400,000 to organisations and groups who provide a range of services or projects. For more information on Council grants, please visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/grants

If you need advice on identifying and applying for grant funding either from the Council or perhaps another source, please contact Nabillah Patel on 01509 632527 or emailnabillah.patel@charnwood.gov.uk.