European Social Fund in England

Boosting the creative industry in Sandwell and Dudley with the public

£53,000 from the European Social Fund is being used to fund a unique artists' training programme for people in the Black Country. Run by innovative arts centre The Public, and funded through the Black Country Learning and Skills Council, the programmes are aimed at providing comprehensive training, support and mentoring for local artists at any stage of their careers.

Traditionally an area which lacks formal support and business opportunities, The Public working with international live arts organisation Funding Pending Live Arts, are delivering this innovative programme of free creative workshops for 120 creative individuals, freelancers and emerging artists from Sandwell and Dudley. The project will specifically target minority groups and those currently under-represented in the creative industries sector, including disabled people, black and minority ethnic groups, the homeless, ex-offenders, lone parents and the unemployed.

Taking place throughout 2004, the workshops include creative exercises, and a series of holistic and individual careers advice sessions, concentrating on helping each artist navigate through the different organisations, networks and individuals to aid them in developing their skills, contacts and business opportunities.

Sandra Hall, from Funding Pending Live Arts said,

"We are inviting creative individuals from Sandwell and Dudley to attend the Lifetimes workshops. We will provide support, advice and career mapping across a range of art forms and creative industries"

To date over 50 people have attended and experienced the programme. All have gained many different benefits from the workshops including meeting new people in the same field, sharing ideas whilst increasing confidence in individual and group situations. One participate reflected on their experience,

"I didn't expect so many ideas for me about my work from other people in the group. We were sharing ideas and all helping each other. I am now actively looking for work and approaching people for work and volunteering to do things. I wouldn't have done that before the workshop. It was really helpful, I'm glad I did it"

For more information, please contact:

Lynsey Cooke

Publicity Officer

Email: lcooke.gowm@go-regions.gov.uk

Direct Tel: 0121 212 5248

Direct Fax: 0121 212 5185

Project Contact:

Helen Annetts

The Public

Email: HelenAnnetts@thepublic.com

Tel: 0121 525 7251