In October 2023, Warwickshire District Council commissioned Arty-Folks to support residents in Lillington CV32, a multi-faceted neighbourhood which is scoring the highest deprivation in South Warwickshire. Even though much has improved in recent years in this small suburb of Leamington, its negative reputation seems to be clinging on.
Our goal over the next 3 years is to empower residents to develop an inclusive and exciting programme of creative activities that will ignite Lillington’s community spirit and restore pride of place. We will engage disadvantaged and marginalised residents in creative activities that bring everyone in Lillington together, regardless of age, ability, or background.
Tuesday 10am-11.30am
@ Lillington Library, Valley Rd, Lillington, Leamington Spa CV32 7SJ
Tuesday 1pm-2.30pm
@ Family Hub Mason Avenue, Mason Ave, Lillington, Leamington Spa CV32 7QE
Join us and help us bring more colour, creativity, and connection to the streets of Lillington!
Within just 6 months, we have made significant strides in galvanising residents into community action by promoting a positive and creative vibe through gathering, events, and artwork of course!
From glass painting to crochet, wreath making to water colours, we’ve hosted a variety of creative sessions for adults, children, and families at various venues including care homes, library, the local primary school and community centre. We have established a permanent presence at Lillington Library to enable easy access to our workshops for residents to de-stress, learn new skills, and make meaningful connections with their neighbours.
We organised the 1st community gathering that attracted over 50 local residents who are keen to promote the environmental agenda. The event planted the seeds for a more connected and vibrant community spearheaded by CLEAN (Cubbington&Lillington Environmental Action Now). We are looking forward to work in partnership with CLEAN towards a ’10,000 Sunflower’ planting project that will brighten up Lillington and instil pride of place. We have also supported groups of litter pickers, gardeners, and walkers to raise their profile and strengthened bonds within the community while supporting local environmental efforts.
To bring colour to the streets and foster a sense of local pride we commissioned renowned muralist KatieO. to create a sunflower mural at The Crest, and we recycled plastics to create a Sunflower installation for roundabout by the library. Bringing Lillington Makers into the community and making their art visible and accessible is a hugely important element of our work, and we have received numerous appreciative and enthusiastic comments by residents that have raised the self-esteem and confidence of participants.
Lillington Connect Facebook page was initiated in 2022 by residents but then quickly became inactive. Since we have taken it over, 700 residents have joined and there is a regular flow of relevant information about groups and services, as well as uplifting updates on activities.
Our Lillington Makers programme is more than just an arts&crafts group; it’s a vehicle for reducing social isolation and improving the mental health of residents. 43% of participants joined to meet new people and socialise more, with many reporting improved mental well-being as a result of their involvement. By offering a safe, supportive space for people to come together, we are building a stronger, more connected community.
The workshops are also a platform to identify residents who may need further support. 15 out of 37 participants this quarter faced challenges such as mental health conditions, unemployment, and caring responsibilities. By signposting them to specialist services and providing peer support, we ensure that Lillington Makers goes beyond creativity to offer practical help.
Our ambition for the future is to empower residents to continue this momentum and grow community empowerment. Over the next three years, we will:
You can drop in to meet us every Tuesday for the weekly group of Lillington Makers at the library. Everyone is most welcome to join in or just come for a cuppa and biccy! Whether you’re a seasoned artist or someone looking to try something new, come and say hello. Our workshops are free, and we provide all the materials you need. To find out about our current art project follow Lillington Connect on Facebook where you will find info about upcoming events and projects in the area.