Nationwide youth charity raises arts funds for Slough

National youth charity Artswork were selected by the Big Give - Arts For Impact campaign, and is focusing its fundraising efforts on Slough, with the aim of raising funds to support creative programmes for children and young people in the area.

Artswork said the decision to focus on Slough followed the success of its programmes in the town, where it uses creativity as a driver for positive change.

Louise Govier, co-CEO of Artswork, said: "From mental health and wellbeing to education and social connection, we deliver real social impact – keeping creativity alive in communities and helping young people build confidence, connection, and purpose through the arts.

"We’ve seen the impact projects have had in Slough delivering youth-led creative projects for children and young people, creating safe, inclusive spaces and activities, where young people can better their community, build skills, confidence, and connection."

The campaign is being match-funded by Arts Council England, which means every public donation made between March 17 and 24 will be doubled.

Past projects in Slough have included work with care-experienced young people who helped transform a space they regularly had appointments in, and a school-based project with young people from the Roma community that promoted inclusion and belonging.

Artswork’s Young Cultural Changemakers programme operates across the South of England, supporting young people facing barriers to lead creative projects that boost their confidence, wellbeing, and life prospects.

The focus on Slough highlights what Artswork describes as a particularly urgent need.

Sanna Malik, placemaking creative producer in Slough, said: "They’ve transformed spaces, led on projects, and developed their skills and confidence in safe spaces working with adults outside of the home, school, and work environment."

Slough is noted as one of the youngest and most diverse towns in the UK, but it also faces high levels of inequality.

One in three residents is under 18, 40 per cent were born outside the UK, and one in five children lives in poverty.

Opportunities for cultural participation are among the lowest in the country, with many young people lacking access to the arts experiences that can support their development.

Artswork has been running its programme in Slough for three years.

Sanna Malik, placemaking creative producer in Slough, said: "We have seen some incredible projects that have helped children and young people feel heard, leading to social impact far beyond the art and creativity itself."

The charity aims to reach more than 1,000 beneficiaries in Slough through this year’s campaign.

Artswork is appealing to local businesses and residents in Slough to donate, noting that every contribution made during the campaign will be matched.