Therapeutic Art Programme
Time and space for creativity can make a big difference to mental health and emotional wellbeing for many of the women The Footprints Project supports. Our art programme involves small group sessions, run by an established Dorset artist, Samantha March, in partnership with our experienced staff. These regular sessions provide focus, community and a sense of self-belief for the women who attend.
As part of the sessions, women create art for exhibitions. They get to showcase their works to the public, raising awareness and confidence for the women whose artwork was on display. Our last exhibition was attended by over 100 members of the general public.
"I really enjoy art 🎨 it's takes my mind of things it's a new skill I've done it for nearly two years learnt new things and the people that run it are friendly and helpful and supportive ☺️ art is free meet new people and the area is convenient"
Employment Pathway
Many of the women we support can struggle moving back to employment. They often have mental and physical health limitations, lack qualifications, or have childcare responsibilities. To support the women back into economic activity, we are developing an employment pathway within Second Chances.
Women are trained to make products such as bags, t-shirts, bookmarks, magnets and jewellery with simple, easy to learn techniques. They’re supported and given the space to develop reliability, confidence in a workplace setting and a belief in their own worth and abilities. The pathway leads them to long-term meaningful employment by building their transferrable skills and references or by offering rewards and sessional employment to the women who want to work within Second Chances..
This pathway is open now, if you’re interested in taking apart, contact info@footprintsproject.co.uk. No previous arts and crafts skills are required.
Shire Hall Museum and Online Shop
Handmade artwork created by our therapeutic art group and employment pathway are available to buy. Profits from all sales directly helps us to support people in the community, in prison, on probation or on caution, making a stronger community that is safer for everyone. Products include bookmarks, bags, t-shirts and jewellery and are sold in our online shop or at the Shire Hall Museum in Dorchester.
The Shire Hall is based in an old Dorchester courthouse and brings over 200 years of justice and injustice to life. There you can walk in the footsteps of people whose lives were forever changed and immerse yourself in the experience a person would have gone through. We’re super grateful to be part of the Shire Hall Museum’s shop and all the profits from there support both the Shire Hall Museum and Footprints. Make sure to check it out next time you’re near.
Ever Considered Volunteering?
Walking alongside someone can be the key to a meaningful change in behaviour.
