As part of Heritage Treasures Day, we’re highlighting Creative Boxes, a new campaign in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. These boxes are provided for young people aged 10 to 16 years and will reach those considered most at-risk and who would benefit from remote creative activities.
The aim is to tackle low self-esteem, low confidence and mental health issues that can potentially be triggered by factors relating to lockdown such as isolation. Lockdowns and social distancing measures have prevented many vulnerable young people from attending education and youth services, as well as limited access to their usual social groups. This is further affected by a significant number of disadvantaged children and young people in Hampshire having limited internet access, many with insufficient broadband and mobile phone access. These Creative Boxes, created with the help of local artists, provide an opportunity for young people to engage in positive experiences, explore their creativity and improve their mental health, as well as emotional resilience. The boxes contain a variety of craft materials, including paint, modelling clay and sketch pads. A social worker said of the campaign; 'if it gives them 45 minutes to just relax and be kids, that's enough to make a difference'.
150 boxes have already been delivered since summer 2020 and there is currently a waiting list for more. You can help support a vulnerable young person by purchasing a Creative Box via our website. The box will go directly to someone in need of it and help us to continue our work with young people.
Read more about our work with young people on our website.
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