Cartwheel Arts inspiring people of all ages

Cartwheel Arts run a range of popular projects for people of all ages

Cartwheel Arts, a thriving Heywood-based arts charity, is helping to raise awareness of mental health issues thanks to projects which are benefitting hundreds of people across the borough.

The charity, which works in partnership with Rochdale Borough Council, has provided a vital support network to thousands since its formation over 30 years ago.

The centre underlined its successful approach to promoting social inclusion when its popular ‘Art for Wellbeing’ project took centre stage throughout National Mental Health Awareness Week.

The project works with adults who have had mental experiences, through a range of creative art courses and projects, as well as providing a vital social and support network at the centre’s bustling Art for Wellbeing Studio, Dandelion Create on Oldham Road in Rochdale.

Julie Urmson, operational mental health lead for Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Cartwheel Arts has been at the heart of the local community for a generation. It does so much inspiring work to promote, cohesion and diversity. The centre is helping so many people from across the borough to not just survive, but also thrive."

Kerry Bertram, Art for Wellbeing project coordinator at Cartwheel Arts, said: “Our aim is to provide imaginative arts projects, which inspire and challenge. We want people to explore and develop their creativity and talents, generating a sense of ownership and pride. We promote awareness of mental health issues all year round and are proud of the visionary work we do.”

Sally McIvor, joint director of integrated commissioning for Rochdale Borough Council and Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Clinical Commissioning Group said: “We are delighted to be working with Cartwheel Arts and raising awareness of mental health issues locally to Rochdale borough residents. The work carried out by Cartwheel Arts is part of our ongoing commitment to supporting local projects and providing them with the opportunity to provide innovative ways to support local people to become healthier and have a better future."

The group welcomes all budding artists, from novices to the more experienced, and art ranges from paintings and drawings, to pottery and poetry.

Cartwheel Arts receives annual funding from Link4Life, Rochdale Boroughwide Cultural Trust. Project funding is received through a range of funders, including Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Clinical Commissioning Group, Arts Council England and the Big Lottery.

National Mental Health Awareness Week has been held since 2000. This year’s theme was ‘surviving to thriving’.