HEADSTAR

HEADSTART

An Arts on Prescription programme for children and young people aged 8 - 17 years

What is HEADSTART?
Using art to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people who experience health challenges such as: stress, anxiety, depression or pain.

HEADSTART is an Arts on Prescription programme that offers young people access to high quality multiple arts workshops in a low stress, supportive environment. Through focused hands-on activities we provide relaxation and distraction, giving participants personal space away from day to day life. 

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How can HEADSTART programmes help?

• Increasing confidence
  
• Learning new skills
  
• Distraction from pain and problems
  
• Spending time doing something enjoyable
  
• Making friends

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We currently offer the following Programmes:

︎HEADSTART Art (ages 8 - 12) & (13 – 17)

This programme provides up to 12 weekly 1.5 hour art workshops. Workshops are small groups of up to 10 young people and led by professional artists. Activities can include drawing and painting, print-making and simple sculpture.

︎ HEADSTART Drama (ages 8 – 12) & (13 - 17)

During our 12 week course young people will learn and explore drama skills that will encourage independent creativity, building confidence and self esteem. The aim of this programme is to support the group to create a piece of drama; the form, style and subject matter of the piece will be inspired by the young people themselves. Participants will be encouraged to take creative lead on the project, making it relevant and relatable to the young people and their current experiences and opinions.

︎🎶️ HEADSTART Music (ages 8 – 12) & (13 - 17)

Unfortunately we will not be running any Headstart Music courses during 2025.  

︎ Find out more about our most recent music courses here.


Good to know...

All workshops are FREE of charge and all materials are provided. Sessions are friendly and welcoming, and no previous arts/music/drama experience is necessary. In the workshops we do not ask you to talk about why you are attending, but you will be asked to complete an online mood quiz aimed at measuring the health benefits of participating.

How can a young person take part?
All HEADSTART programmes are available on a referral basis for young people who experience depression, stress, anxiety and/or pain. You can ask your GP, a support worker or health care provider if they think it would benefit you. 

You can also refer your young person directly if you wish. Simply complete the form and return to us.

Referral Forms:
For a referral form please download the form below:

Referral Form Word.doc

or contact us on:

︎  referrals@artsforhealthmk.org.uk.

︎ 01908 996124


What happens?

When we receive your referral we will contact you and invite you to attend one of our HEADSTART programmes.

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︎Looking for Activities to try at home whilst we process your referral?
Have you tried our online activities yet? There is plenty to explore from home including photography ideas, painting tips and music to listen to. Explore here

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Headstart is funded by Big Lottery Community Fund