A Wiltshire-based group set up six years ago to support people with mental health issues in Trowbridge has won a Creative Lives national award for England.

Trowbridge Service Users Group is a peer support group for people experiencing mental health difficulties who have been discharged from the National Health Service.

Participants engage in regular arts and craft activities in a dedicated space to foster creative expression, build friendships and increase skills.

The Creative Lives Awards celebrate the incredible achievements of groups and projects providing creative activity for people of all ages and abilities across England, Ireland/Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

A winner and runner-up was chosen from each nation and Trowbridge Service Users Group won the England Award. They received an award and framed certificate, cash prize and free access to all of Creative Lives future online training sessions.

Representatives from the winning groups attended a ceremony at Cecil Sharp House in London on Thursday, September 26 to receive their awards.

Mark Marshall, from the Trowbridge Service Users Group, said: “Hearing that we had won a Creative Lives Award was a huge surprise. We see ourselves as a small but steadily growing group, moving in the right direction.

“The publicity that Trowbridge Service Users Group will gain from this should really propel us forward, helping more people learn about our service.

“Our members already know how much the group benefits their lives, and we’re thrilled that others will now recognise the value of a safe and creative space.”

Since its inception in 2018, Trowbridge Service Users Group in Wiltshire has evolved into a beacon of community support and creative expression.

Initially conceived within the Community Room at Tesco Extra Trowbridge, the group’s humble beginnings were characterised by a grand vision and scant financial resources.

The core concept was to establish a nurturing environment devoid of the pressures of work or therapy, where individuals could congregate socially and forge meaningful connections. Regular arts and crafts sessions quickly emerged as a cornerstone of the group’s success. 

In 2023, a significant milestone was reached as Trowbridge Service Users Group secured its own dedicated space.

During sessions, members are encouraged to participate in activities at their own pace and according to their individual preferences.

Whether it's painting, glass fusion, weaving or felting, the freedom to pursue one's artistic inclinations is celebrated and supported.

Mr Marshall added: “Through the provision of a welcoming and supportive environment, we strive to empower individuals, foster creativity, and forge enduring connections that transcend the confines of our physical space.

“As we look to the future, our commitment to promoting mental health and social cohesion remains unwavering, fuelled by the collective spirit of our dedicated members and the continued support of our broader community.” 

Robin Simpson, chief executive of Creative Lives said: “The Creative Lives Awards consistently reveal the extraordinary impact of volunteer-led creative groups.

“This year’s winners demonstrate – yet again – the vital role such groups play in building stronger, more resilient communities. At a time when so many are experiencing isolation and uncertainty, these groups offer a lifeline of connection, shared purpose and joy.”

The UK Government’s Arts Minister, Sir Chris Bryant, said: “Finding the time and space to be creative can allow people of all ages and backgrounds to use their imaginations and create beautiful artwork, write thought-provoking poetry and express themselves through music and dance, for example.

“I would like to offer a special congratulation to Trowbridge Service Users Group and say thank you to all the groups shortlisted for this year’s Creative Lives Awards for the work they do improving and transforming lives in communities across the country.”