THE Arts4Wellbeing project running across the Tivyside area has received a major financial boost.

The VINCI UK Foundation has announced grants totalling £200,000 to support 30 local charities across the UK which focus on improving access to training, employment, housing and healthcare for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society.

And Arts4Wellbeing has received a cheque for £10,000 at one of its group meeting at Abewrporth Village Hall. It will go towards buying a van, which will help with the set-up of pop-up studios in rural areas.

The aim of the Arts4Wellbeing (A4W) project is to support the establishment of ‘Compassionate Communities’ hubs as small community based co-operatives in eight village halls namely Gorsgoch, Pontgarreg, Coed y Bryn, Llechryd, Aberporth, Ferwig, Sarnau and Penrhiwllan.

Arts4Wellbeing provides arts and crafts sessions for people of all ages and abilities in the area, allowing them to connect, express their creativity and increase their confidence and wellbeing and thereby alleviate social exclusion and strengthen communities.

"The grant to help buy the van will be a huge help to us and we cannot thank the VINCI UK Foundation enough," said Arts4Wellbeing director Sara Wentworth.

VINCI employees, from apprentices to senior management, will also dedicate some of their time to providing practical support to organisations and projects.