The Arts in Action Programme is to run from Monday, 25th August to Friday, 29th August 2008 inclusive.

Training days (compulsory)
Sunday 17th August and Sunday 24th August 2008

Volunteers are urgently needed for this fulfilling and enjoyable Programme

'Arts in Action' uses the creative arts to build inclusive communities, encourage friendship between people in the community and people with learning disabilities, increase confidence, improve skills and artistic talents, both for people with learning disabilities and volunteers. Most of all we encourage everyone to have fun together.

'Arts in Action' is an innovative and creative community project that aims to combat loneliness, isolation and in many instances deprivation of young people with learning disabilities. This is especially evident during the holiday periods.

In January 2002 we were privileged to be awarded Second Prize for our 'Arts in Action' Project in the Barnet Civic Awards projects ceremony sponsored by Middlesex University.

The aims of 'Arts in Action' include:

• the opportunity to encourage the individual's creative artistic talents
• provide meaningful and stimulating leisure and recreation opportunities
• support, educate and encourage the involvement of volunteers in the community
• create the opportunity for relaxation and fun
• create the opportunity to build relationships between people who would otherwise be lonely and segregated during this period
• create a safe environment both physically and emotionally
• encourage and increase confidence through social opportunities
• encourage confidence through art, drama, music and other creative activities
• provide the opportunity for self-expression

Quotes from previous 'Arts in Action Participants:

"I had a wonderful time with the helpers and they taught me a lot of new things. Can I come to all your things in the future." Gary, a participant on AIA.

"What I enjoyed the most was the music and I like to do this for the future. All the staff were lovely and helped me out. My volunteers Reena, Kate and Sam were excellent. See you soon. Love from Naomi." Naomi, participant on AIA.

"I enjoyed the week especially the drama classes. My volunteers Vanisha and Ruth were very nice and helpful. Looking forward to seeing you soon. Love Anne." Anne, participant on AIA.

"The Larches' training gave me confidence and skills to participate fully in an amazing project".

In the final volunteers meeting 'amazing' and 'wonderful' were words used to describe how we found the week." Sara, volunteer on AIA.

"It was nice to know that simply by being a friend to somebody you could make a difference in their life. I am glad that I participated in AIA and look forward to working with The Larches Trust in the future." Natalie, volunteer on AIA.