Craftivism & Chat is a creative and accessible space for Disabled people to connect through sharing lived experiences, building skills and confidence and using our creativity to push for change. Craftivism and Chat challenges the systems that take away our choice and control and impact our well-being. The joy and connection at Craftivism and Chat stand up to efforts to isolate and silence us. You can read more about the project here.
- 100% of attendees rated sessions good or great.
- 95% of attendees reports feeling more connected and less isolated.
- 18 sessions delivered this year.
- 3 members supported to develop skills to plan and deliver sessions.
Tayo's Story - Increasing Confidence and Connection with Craftivism and Chat
Tayo faced multiple barriers to the move to so much being online during the pandemic. Tayo regularly attended Craftivism and Chat in person and was worried that she would not be able to attend online. She created a large canvas painting (to the left) to highlight her frustrations. Our staff supported Tayo to begin using Zoom. Being comfortable with other members, enabled Tayo to gradually use the chat function, then the mic and then video. Being able to access the sessions helped Tayo to maintain her wellbeing and avoid isolation due to maintaining contact with other Disabled people. She stated that she ‘left each meeting with a different perspective on things. The group gave us a chance to get our voices heard’. Tayo now has increased confidence around attending online sessions and regularly uses Craftivism to speak up about issues affecting her life.
| “Craftivism & Chat has helped me to get my confidence back.” |
“Craftivism & Chat and the access support provided helps me to connect with others.” |
"It is nice to have a space to speak about the issues that matter to us." |
Craftivism & Chat helps me to feel less lonely
"I have attended a number of Craftivism and Chat sessions this year. I find the sessions entertaining - especially the wreath making session. I created a wreath to take home and put on my front door. Coming along to Craftivism and Chat helps me to feel less lonely as have something to look forward to and I get to speak to people. I find that this can be both fun and challenging for me as I sometimes go a while without seeing or socialising with people”.
Take a look at Craftivism Created by our Community of Members - Click here.