The volunteers at Romsey‘s mental health support service, are getting ready to launch a new programme of free art sessions in September. 

Sessions are held on Tuesday afternoons at the Dr Peter Centre.

Prescription Art Test Valley is a registered charity run by volunteers. Jill Wilson, the chairman and founder member, explained that the charity has been very well supported over the years with grants from local councillors, businesses and donations.

The charity offers a safe space for people with loneliness, anxiety, mild depression or bereavement to develop their creative skills. The courses have made huge differences to people’s wellbeing and some had said it had changed their lives.

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The six-week course covers various techniques, including ceramics, collage and painting, and is led by experienced art facilitators. No previous skills are required and all materials and refreshments are provided free of charge. In the final week of the programme there is a chance to share the work at an exhibition to previous participants.

Retired GP Dr Peter White said: “We are fortunate to have this sort of service available to people facing challenges with their mental health. 

“At the moment we don’t have a waiting list, so we will welcome applications over the summer from health professionals.” 

For further information visit prescriptionarttestvalley.org or contact Jill Wilson at info@prescriptionarttestvalley.org.