2018 Enabling Ability Award

Artz for All, based at the Artz Centre in Skelmersdale, have been recognised for their impact in Enabling Ability.

Skelmersdale has significantly higher numbers of children and young people compared to the rest of Lancashire, with almost 40% of 0-15 year olds living in income-deprived households – almost double the national average.

Despite elevated levels of economic and social deprivation, Artz for All are helping young people across Skelmersdale to look forward to a future that is decorated with ambition, no matter what. Up to 260 individual local young people are able to access an affordable, regular timetable of arts-related sessions in drama, dance and singing each week. The purpose of these services however, goes beyond the teaching of the arts; Artz students are fundamentally encouraged to raise their aspirations, dream big and grow as confident and capable citizens of their wider community.

The Artz Centre prides itself on providing a vibrant, engaging and safe community venue that sets out to develop, nurture and challenge disadvantaged individuals of all ages from the local community, encouraging them to turn their negative experiences into positive outcomes.

The Centre’s motto recognises that “It’s good to be different” and everyone who walks through their doors is encouraged to Aim High, Work Hard, Take Pride, Have Respect and Be Yourself.

“We were delighted to have won the award for ‘Enabling Ability’ as that is exactly what we have been doing for the past 5 years,” said Director Mark Ashton. “It was great to have the work of our team and our young people recognised at such a great event and in the company of such great Social Enterprises”.

The category was presented by NatWest in association with the Skills and Opportunities Fund. Heather Waters, Enterprise Manager, NatWest Business Banking said “It was an honour to represent NatWest and to show our support and recognition of the work that social enterprises deliver across Lancashire. Enabling Ability is the theme at the heart of our Skills and Opportunities programme, where we are working with Selnet to raise the profile of social enterprise careers and self-employment –  so it was a great category to present.  I wish Artz for All, all the winners and nominees every success for the future.”


Category Finalists:
The Birchwood Centre, The Growing Club CIC and U-Night Group (Meet’n’Match)

 

 

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