Belgravia Foundation and Knox Leisureworks Partner to Deliver Successful "Canvas and Cuppa" Event

Belgravia Foundation, in partnership with Knox Leisureworks, is proud to celebrate the success of the recent "Canvas and Cuppa" event. Designed to raise awareness around mental health, this initiative focused on using art therapy to encourage mindfulness, creative expression, and social connection, all in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Participants responded enthusiastically to the event, praising its blend of creativity and therapeutic value. Many attendees appreciated the opportunity to unwind, with feedback highlighting the relaxed atmosphere and the gracious facilitation by host Ruby. The event offered a safe space for participants to express themselves through art, promoting mental well-being through mindful activities.

Belgravia Foundation’s commitment to evidence-based decisions is reflected in its community consultations and research surrounding mental health initiatives like the MHeLP training program. Regulating emotions is recognized as vital for overall health, with evidence indicating that emotional regulation can reduce anxiety and depression. Furthermore, mindfulness practices are known to enhance emotional resilience and promote well-being, reinforcing the foundation's focus on fostering mental health through community engagement.

This event also showcased a non-traditional activity for a leisure centre, successfully attracting a diverse audience who may not typically engage in conventional fitness programs. By encouraging participation in art therapy, the event provided an alternative avenue for community members to connect and experience the facility, fostering a greater sense of belonging.

Evaluations from the event indicated a desire for incorporating a visualization silent element alongside social sharing activities, further enhancing the experience for participants. Despite this, the event was well received, earning an average rating of 8.9 out of 10. Attendees described the session as "fun," "relaxing," and "very beneficial," noting how the event helped them "express themselves through the canvas" and connect with others.

Building on the success of the "Canvas and Cuppa" event, Belgravia Foundation and Knox Leisureworks are excited to announce the upcoming "Express Yourself" event, scheduled for World Mental Health Day on October 10th. This event will continue promoting the importance of mental well-being by integrating art therapy, focusing on the connection between an active mind and physical health.

Belgravia Foundation is committed to delivering programs that enhance mental health and foster inclusivity, with initiatives like this ensuring that Knox Leisureworks continues to be a space where everyone is welcomed and supported.