This year’s Carers Week has focused heavily on providing unpaid carers with better support. But what about showcasing their talents?
Portsmouth Carers Service, in aid of Carers Week, is hosting an art and poetry display, all of which were created by unpaid carers in the city.
The works were created during workshops that allow for carers to write, sculpt or collage to express their thoughts and feelings about working in the sector. It is hoped that the pieces of art included in the exhibition – which launched on Monday and is due to last until Sunday 15th June – help others who might not yet realise they are working as an unpaid carer.
As well as launching alongside Carers Week, the latest Census figures show the exhibition couldn’t have come at a better time. The figures outline that there are around 15,000 carers living in Portsmouth.
Cllr Matthew Winnington, cabinet member for community wellbeing, health and care, attended the launch of the art show on Monday and described the collection as ‘powerful’ and ‘meaningful’.
‘This powerful collection of artwork and poetry wonderfully captures some of the experiences and feelings of carers, who are the absolute backbone of our city,’ Cllr Winnington said. ‘I hope it inspires meaningful conversations, helps more people to recognise themselves as carers, and drives continued improvements in the support we offer to unpaid carers in Portsmouth.’
Laura, project officer at the carers service, who runs the creative sessions, added: ‘I try to make the sessions really relaxed so people can just take part in whatever art they feel like doing. Some people said they weren’t creative at all, but the discussion brought it out. Doing something with your hands makes you feel more comfortable to have conversations as you’re distracted. Everyone leaves feeling a little bit lighter, which isn’t something you can quantify.’
Images: Portsmouth City Council
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