Empowering Communities : Changing Lives
Creative Courses That Really Make A Difference
Verd de Gris Arts has developed a transformative well-being methodology over the past 15 years, addressing critical issues such as low confidence, social anxiety, and limited aspirations among women and girls. Our approach is particularly impactful because it focuses on bridging the gap between the lived realities of marginalised women and the opportunities available to them. By acknowledging the complex emotional and environmental challenges these women face, we ensure that our programmes are not only accessible but also deeply supportive.
“This work is about creating a safe womb-space, nourishing and creative, birthing more confident, connected, stronger women. I have had opportunities to connect with women from different backgrounds, socially and culturally, ages and histories. This diversity has given me more confidence to be more empathetic and caring towards others. The world needs more of this energy.”
Zoe – Behind The Mask participant
What sets our work apart is our commitment to sustained engagement beyond the initial courses.
Behind The Mask and Begin 2 Change serve as stepping stones to further involvement with the One Voice Collective.This collective provides women who have gained greater self-confidence with ongoing opportunities to participate in creative and social activities.These activities, co- designed with One Voice members, culminate in public performances, conferences, and advocacy work, amplifying the voices of these women and creating a lasting impact on their communities.
“My confidence and belief has grown. I manage my anxiety, and the ‘freeze or flight’ response which crippled me before is now something I own – every day!”
Deborah – Begin 2 Change participant
This methodology not only empowers women individually but also fosters a sense of community and collective action, ensuring that the benefits of their programmes extend far beyond the duration of the courses themselves.
“No doctor, no counsellor has done as much for me as this course!”
Sophia – Behind The Mask participant
Our courses are constantly evolving and adapting to meet local women’s needs. Our most recent courses include:
BEHIND THE MASK: a proven methodology working to support women with low confidence or living with a variety of issues impacting their quality of life and emotional resilience.These well-being sessions are for women from across local communities – they are inclusive and accessible.
BEGIN 2 CHANGE: this project builds on the Behind the Mask model and explores progression into further education, paid employment, and volunteering opportunities. It combines group and dedicated one-to-one (121) support, working closely with key agencies and stakeholders, including the DWP, local colleges, and employment agencies.
LOST WITHOUT A MAP: a creative project for women who may be feeling disconnected or ‘stuck’ in their lives.This course addresses a real, identified need for emotional support and connection among local women, using the therapeutic benefits of creative expression to help women find their way back to a more fulfilling and connected life.
SOUL SPACE: as part of our work to support new, upcoming artists / project facilitators, we have been working with Mary Brooks and her Mary & The Elements initiative: a project designed for a younger cohort of women who are feeling anxious or stressed – younger women who want to find a deeper connection to themselves and to other women. Re-connect, Empower, Re-wild, Breathe… and cold-water dip with Mary and her tribe!
Our most recent projects are supported by a range of funders including The National Lottery Community Fund, West Yorkshire Mayor’s Safer Communities Fund, People’s Postcode Lottery, Give Bradford, Pause / Barnardos Bradford, Culturedale – Calderdale MBC’s Year of Culture.
Keep up to date with other events as they happen by following our Facebook page verd de gris arts and on Instagram
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