In 2021, thanks to Cultural Spring, we were given the chance to create colouring books which were distributed to isolated people living in Sunderland. it was very well receieved and demand exceeded supply. We would love to do this again! Packs will contain a colouring book, pens or pencils. These will feature a whole new series of high quality bespoke line drawings of the city and its residents, from history up to the modern day. The subject matter ensures this will be family-friendly and inter-generational. High contrast copies are available on request. Suggested themes for the new books include: - A Woman's Work - Hive of Industry - Childhood in Sunderland The colouring books will be provided for free to anybody living in Sunderland, including those who have experienced shielding during Covid19 lockdown, isolation, and loneliness. Community organisations will help with the distribution. This initiative has a relatively low unit cost but will reach a large volume of people.

What we'll deliver:

• Run a survey of the most popular subject(s) for 3 new colouring books
• According to the survey results, create 60 line bespoke drawings for each colouring book.
• Format and compile the drawings in preparation for printing
• Order 300 colouring books, clear wallets and colouring pencils/ pens
• Regeneration NE will put the colouring packs together
• Notify partners/ stakeholders that the books are ready for collection and distribution to their members
• Regeneration NE will also post colouring packs to individuals subject to availability

Why it's a great idea:

Research shows that colouring in has many health benefits for participants such as reducing stress and making people more calm. It has meditative qualities. This project is inclusive and accessible to a broad range of people, including (but not limited to): - Disabled and Clinically Extremely Vulnerable people who continue to shield against the risk of Covid19 - Families who lack disposable income to travel to workshops - Hospital or hospice patients - Care home residents By involving local service providers, e.g. libraries, food banks, community associations, this project will reach people who do not have access to technology, data or the internet. Younger residents will learn about the history and heritage of the city. Older people will be able to reminisce and share memories. We are told that people who experience short term memory loss, e.g. dementia, Alzheimer's, could benefit from these books as reminiscence therapy (positive feelings gained from sharing pleasant memories).

Steps to get it done:

• Select 20 images of people and places to feature in each of 3 colouring books
• Create the lline drawings for each
• Compile the print files and layout to order the printed colouring books
• Buy the pens or pencils to accompany the books
• Invite participants and organisations to sign up
• Distribute the colouring packs to people and organisations