Love is the Map
Love is the Map organiser Beth Coverdale sought support for arts activity and creative consultation at their first event and beyond. They are a group of 25 Newcastle and Gateshead residents from varied backgrounds, many living in the East End, who love the area & wanted to make something inspiring happen for local people. The event was a celebration of the local community - providing an opportunity for people to re-connect, get involved in new things and find out about local groups.
Summary: Local residents organising a community party
Award: £750
Area: Byker
Beneficiaries: 300+ attended the event
Digital Story: Love is the Map - a Community Party for the East End
The Love is the Map activity aimed to reduce social isolation, improve mental health & increase self esteem for Byker adults - by connecting people, signposting to continued involvement with groups (some wellbeing-based) & offering new skills. It was also expected to lead to:
Increased pride and participation by residents in their locality - by promoting the array of activity nearby & how to get involved, as well as supporting people to access new opportunities and visit a local space which many haven't accessed before.
People exploring a sense of their place and who they are within it - by offering opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds & to get to know the community better.
Greater access to activities and hobbies - local people were able to ‘sample’ different kinds of activities led by different groups & teachers, and it is hoped that many people will continue to engage with those arts activities.