The Fun Palaces Manifesto states:
WE BELIEVE IN THE GENIUS IN EVERYONE, IN EVERYONE AN ARTIST AND EVERYONE A SCIENTIST, AND THAT CREATIVITY IN COMMUNITY CAN CHANGE THE WORLD FOR THE BETTER.
WE BELIEVE WE CAN DO THIS TOGETHER, LOCALLY, WITH RADICAL FUN – AND THAT ANYONE, ANYWHERE, CAN MAKE A FUN PALACE."

The original concept came from Joan Littlewood, who was a Lewisham (Blackheath) resident.

At LDC, particularly in the context of welfare "reforms", we tend to see disabled people coming to us for advice at the point of considerable personal challenge and often hardship but there is an overwhelming sense of positivity and creativity that shines and mutual support that shines through. We are running monthly creative coffee mornings which we want to showcase as part of the national network of "Fun Palaces".

In addition we will be celebrating the historic contribution of disabled people in Lewisham.

What we'll deliver:

• Encourage celebration of our "local heroes" from the history of our borough.
• Showcase the artistic talent of local disabled people
• Run a Fun Palace

Why it's a great idea:

Because we are aware that social engagement, including through the arts, is good for people's health and wellbeing as well as creating artistic works, Similarly our "local heroes" showcase will help with clients and members' reminiscences, again there is volumes of research into the positive impact of reminiscence work.

Steps to get it done:

• We will invite local schools to showcase the talents of their students
• We will invite the local community to visit this showcase of local talent
• We will open our doors as an "art gallery" of our clients and members' work

Already the work we have started has attracted people who have shared the personal benefits of joint creative work for mental health and wellbeing and our informal "Disabled People who've made a difference" showcase in our reception area is well received.