Arts project hailed for having positive impact
AN arts programme in Barrhead has given parents the opportunity to demonstrate their creative flair and increase their employability skills at the same time.
Impact Arts delivered the eightweek Impactful Parents programme to adult learners in the town.
Commissioned by Barrhead Housing Association, the project involved those taking part using art and creative writing to develop their skills.
Maggie Lilly, opportunities coordinator at Impact Arts, told the Barrhead News: “For a number of our participants, English isn’t their first language, so we spent a lot of time working with them to identify their ambition.
“Some are looking to apply for jobs, others wanted to be able to help their kids with their school work and others just wanted to be more confident talking with their friends and neighbours.”
Participants worked with an art tutor at twice-weekly sessions held in the community hall at St Andrew’s Parish Church, where they explored using different media and techniques to create artwork, sculpture, creative writing and poetry.
The finished pieces were then exhibited at a celebratory showcase at the church.
At the end of the course, those taking part achieved a Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) award in communication at level three of the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework.
“The opportunity to achieve a SQA award in communication is a big draw for our participants,” added Maggie.
“For many of them, it’s the first qualification they’ve earned, so it’s a massive achievement.”
One of the participants, Romana, said she enjoyed being part of the group, learning new skills and meeting new people.
“I feel more confident in myself and I would recommend that anyone who wants to improve their communication skills gives a course like this a try,” explained Romana.
Aisha, another participant, added: “Now the course is finished, I’m looking to apply for part-time work.”
For more information on Impact Arts and the charty’s community programmes, call 0141 575 3001 or send an email to mail@ impactarts.co.uk.