'Arts and Chats' initiative launched in Cork to tackle isolation

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL has announced a new initiative that will offer people dealing with social isolation the chance to discover new hobbies and meet new people.

Supported by Creative Ireland, Arts and Chats will see the local authority work with four established networks in the county to build connections between social prescribing networks, the libraries, and creative facilitators living and working throughout the county.

Participants of the programme will take part in creative activities — from printmaking and drawing to ukulele-playing or singing.

The workshops are designed to be social, with a cup of tea and a chat being an important element of each meeting.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Frank O’Flynn, said of the initiative: “It is important to us, in a county of this size with a large rural area, to maintain a close-knit sense of community.

“Creativity has many mental health benefits.

“From singing in a choir to crocheting a blanket, we are delighted to offer people experiencing social isolation an opportunity to get out and meet people all while being creative.”

Sheelagh Broderick, of Senior Health Promotion at Cork Kerry Community Healthcare, Health Service Executive, said: “This is a great opportunity for people who have been isolated to get out and get creative in their own local communities.

“The service is being provided free and support is available for those who have difficulty with access.

“Get in touch with your social prescribing link worker at family resource centres in Dunmanway, Adrigole, Mallow, Midleton, and Ballincollig.”

With the support of Creative Ireland, Cork County Council, together with the National Family Resource Centre Mental Health project and Cork Kerry Community Healthcare Health Promotion & Improvement Department, will deliver the Arts and Chats social prescribing project from next month.