Artswork work with young people supported by the Youth Justice Service in creative wellbeing project

This fantastic initiative saw young people from the Isle of Wight engage with a professional artist. Consequently creating murals for the cell at Newport Court in which children and vulnerable adults are held.

Grants for youth-led projects were funded by HAF and match-funded by #BeeWell and The National Lottery Community Fund. Youth Matters, the HIPS steering group, reviewed the applications and made recommendations.

What the project aimed to do

In line with Child First principles, the project aimed to create murals in the cell to make it a less stark and alienating space. They wanted to create a more calming environment to help those who are held in the cell (many of whom are neurodivergent and/or have mental health issues) to moderate behaviour and be less anxious.

At the same time, the programme supported the young people taking part in the project to ‘give something back’. They had the opportunity to:

• work together to create something they could be proud of
• build their confidence 
• support their own mental wellbeing
• develop creative skills and skills in areas such as communication and teamwork, recognised with accredited digital badges. 

Transforming the cell

The group created a series of murals representing ‘Windows to Wellbeing’; designed to take the cell’s occupants ‘out’ of a stressful and intimidating space. In particular they worked with the artist to understand the impact of colour and theme on mood. Subsequently choosing their own colour palette to create calm and promote emotional regulation and wellbeing. Additionally they made the decisions about the themes and composition.

 

Impact

The Windows to Wellbeing project had a positive impact on participants wellbeing. This was evidenced by increased engagement and confidence, both in terms of skills learnt and social interaction. 

“Sometimes when you talk to me or ask me a question, I don’t hear what you’re saying because I’m so into what I’m painting, everything else disappears”.

Equally import is the positive impact on the wellbeing of young people held in the cell. This will be monitored through feedback from court staff on an ongoing basis. 

 

 

Finally the Isle of Wight Youth Justice Board recognised this project as an example of good practice, recommending it be shared with other local authorities. The project exemplifies how Child First approaches—centred on participation, creativity, and personal development—can lead to meaningful change both for individuals and the wider system.

Many thanks to Artswork, artist Laura Hathaway, and Isle of Wight Youth Justice Service for support young people through creative wellbeing!

To find more about other youth commissioned projects please visit Young people in HIPS lead the way in commissioning youth activities – #BeeWell