FILM, theatre and photographic stars are helping Dudley youngsters overcome loneliness and mental health issues. Project Connect, run by St Thomas’s Community Association in Dudley, was launched this week to coincide with Children’s Mental Health Week. This year’s theme is ‘Express Yourself’ in one of many ways including art, music, writing and poetry, dance and drama, photography and film. The idea mis to deliver activities that make young people feel good, to tackle loneliness and social isolation. A programme of online sessions by award winning directors, photographers, actors and performers is on offer via Zoom. They include Greek actress Emmanuela Lia, who was cast alongside Damian Lewis and Steve Berkoff in the film Brides and has completed residences at the Barbican and Lyric theatres in London.
The St Thomas Community Association in Dudley is planning to launch Project Connect. While a lot of focus over the last year has been on vulnerable and elderly people isolated because of the pandemic, people at St Thomas’ say younf people are also affected. The plan is to offer a range of activities for young people aged 11 to 25 via Zoom. They include arts & crafts, photography, film making, theatre, learning to grow food, dance, quiz night, Open mic as well as general let’s talk discussion sessions. The idea is to create opportunities to make new friendships, learn new skills and share experiences.