Local homebuilder supports creative workshops for adults with learning disabilities in Exeter

D'Arts Exeter, a charity dedicated to providing creative workshops for adults with learning disabilities, has received a generous donation of £1,500 from local homebuilder Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter. This funding will support the charity’s mission of fostering inclusivity and offering enriching artistic experiences.

D'Arts Exeter was founded fourteen years ago by volunteers who identified a pressing need locally: accessible arts opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities.

The charity organises monthly workshops led by professional artists, encompassing a wide range of activities such as bhangra dancing, drama, street dance, seasonal crafts, and screen printing. In 2015 D'Arts Exeter set up an annual two-day music and arts festival for people with learning disabilities and their friends, family and carers, D’Arts Fest. This year, this took place on 29th to 30th June, showcasing performances and workshops by various arts groups.

Run entirely by volunteers, the charity is supported by around twenty dedicated individuals, all with experience working with people with learning disabilities. Each workshop at the Exeter Community Centre sees up to twenty participants get the opportunity to explore their creative interests and socialise. Due to the growing number of attendees, D'Arts Exeter now offers both morning and afternoon sessions to ensure a manageable and enjoyable experience for all.

Nicki Reid, Sales Director for Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter, said: “D'Arts Exeter provides invaluable opportunities for adults with learning disabilities to express themselves creatively and connect with others. This donation is part of our ongoing commitment to support the communities where we build, and we are delighted to be able to support the charity’s vital work in the city.”

Sophie Dymond, Administrator at D'Arts Exeter, highlighted the impact of the donation: “This funding will go towards the hire of our workshop space, providing lunch for participants, and paying the professional artists who lead our sessions. Fundraising is always a challenge for small charities like ours, and missing out on lottery funding this year made this donation even more vital. We are grateful to Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter for helping us continue our work.”

D'Arts Exeter aims to offer opportunities that participants might not otherwise have, promoting social interaction and the experience of new artistic endeavours. The charity is committed to inclusivity and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the chance to engage in meaningful creative activities.

For more information about D'Arts Exeter and how you can support the charity, head to theirFacebook page.

To learn more about Barratt Developments, visit www.barratthomes.co.uk.