Charity park art fun in castle grounds

An afternoon of creative inspiration was enjoyed at Castle Care Villages when Barchester Healthcare and Humber NHS Foundation Trust came together to promote positive mental health through creative art.

The day was packed with activities ranging from samba and swing dancing to Tai Chi and theatrical performance.  Hayley Youell from Reflections also brought along her Olympic Torch which she was nominated for her work in Arts in Health including her work with Reflections Art in Health Charity

Attendees at the event got involved in creating a magnificent Union Jack embellished 3D teapot from papier maché which is going to be displayed on the Castle site. The event raised funds for Reflections Art, Health Charity and social enterprise, My Voice.

Park Art is a national campaign working to raise awareness and funds for Reflections Art in Health and to challenge the stigma and discrimination around mental health problems through music, dance and arts and crafts. Hull Samba, Kingston Swing and The Acting Group were among a few local groups that entertained on the day.

Cyd Akrill, Senior General Manager of Castle Care Villages and surrounding homes, said: "What a fantastic day! It was all-encompassing and involved the whole community, inspiring us all to get creative. New forms of art were experienced and the Tai Chi sessions and Lindy Hop dancing were a big hit with our residents at the Castle Care Village, which provide 24-hour nursing care for people of all ages.

Julie Hastings, a Governor at Humber NHS Foundation Trust attended the event, she said: "It was great to see so many people outdoors enjoying art. I think this is definitely something we will do again as there is so much creative talent amongst our service users."

A patient from Windermere House Independent Hospital won an award for best work of art, which was judged by residents from Castle View. The winning entrant's design was created using batik art techniques and depicted Elvis Presley.