With financial support of £3,000 from BHA through the Supporting Communities Fund (SCF), Allanton-based Allanbank Arts propose creating a network using social media platforms to support adults and young people who struggle with anxiety caused by the current pandemic and also young people with disabilities.

Liz Hardy of Allanbank Arts said: “Allanbank Arts are currently working with pupils at Berwickshire High School, and adults and families living in the Berwickshire community who are currently missing their usual activities. We are providing online resources, wonderful videos made by artists, zoom calls, art materials and support to help people of all ages to use creativity and especially art to support them at this tricky time.

“We have already made some wonderful new friends, seen laughs and smiles, innovative artwork and had great feedback. The project is currently supported by BHA and we hope to extend it throughout the winter and into the spring of 2021.”

Activities will include: The production of 5/6 You Tube videos featuring artists and their work; A production and delivery of a box full of art and craft materials to all participants; A combination of group and one-to-one zoom calls with participants and their families where possible to enjoy a “live” studio experience.

The aim of the project is to build resilience, a sense of community and have fun! It is also recognised that as restrictions continue due to the COVID-19 pandemic Allanbank Arts have built a community of connections and can look at how to support these people within that network.

BHA’s community initiatives manager Dougie Paterson added: “BHA is delighted to support this innovative project that encourages people to get creative and connect them to others in new ways. As we all get used to doing more things online, we know our friends at Allanbank will inspire fun and novel ways to do this through art and media. We can’t wait to see the results!”