Island-based creative health charity Independent Arts has launched its Creatively Connected Christmas campaign, aiming to raise £8,000 to help keep its much-loved Creative Hub in Newport open – a warm, welcoming lifeline for Islanders who rely on creativity to support their mental and physical wellbeing.
For more than 35 years, Independent Arts has helped people across the Isle of Wight live healthier, happier, more connected lives through the power of creativity.
Reaching people of all ages
From inclusive singing groups to hands-on arts workshops and research-backed wellbeing programmes, the charity’s work reaches people of all ages – supporting emotional wellbeing, reducing loneliness, and improving quality of life at every stage.
Creative Hub: Open six days a week
At the heart of this work is the Creative Hub, open six days a week and offering a safe, friendly space where anyone can drop in, take part in simple creative activities, meet others, and feel part of a supportive community.
For many participants, the Hub is the only place they feel comfortable, accepted, and able to thrive.
Christmas spirit
This year’s Creatively Connected campaign also includes a festive community project inspired by the much-loved children’s book The Jolly Christmas Postman.
The Hub’s Christmas window celebrates kindness, imagination and connection, inviting visitors to write a Christmas card for someone living in a local care home who may be feeling lonely or without family this Christmas. Cards can be dropped off at the Hub and will be hand-delivered in time for the festive season.
Christmas opening times
Independent Arts’ Creative Hub in Newport will be open for drop-in creative activities over the festive period on 29th, 30th, and 31st December from 10am to 2pm, offering a warm, welcoming space for Islanders to enjoy simple creative activities, companionship, and wellbeing support.
Matt Hitt, Creative Programmes and Fundraising Manager at Independent Arts, says,
“We see every day how creativity transforms lives.
“For some, our Creative Hub is more than a building – it’s a lifeline. With the community’s support, we can keep that lifeline open and continue helping Islanders live well through everyday creativity.”
How your donation can be doubled
Independent Arts is fundraising through GiveMatch, a platform that can double – or even triple – your donation at no extra cost to you.
Here’s how it works
- Make a donation through Independent Arts’ GiveMatch page
- You’ll receive your own referral link
- If two people donate using your link, GiveMatch will double your original donation
It’s a simple way for supporters to maximise their impact and help the charity reach even more people who need a place to feel connected and cared for this Christmas.
Donate or find out more by visiting the website.
News shared by Sarah on behalf of Independent Arts. Ed
