We propose to hold two 10-week blocks of vocational training for ten adults at a time, who have been long-term unemployed or who are living with mental health difficulties. Participants will be trained in professional picture framing and learn about Fine Art Trade Guild standards. Once the attendees have gained the necessary skills and experience, they will create the frames for local art groups taking part in a free community exhibition at The Regis Centre in Bognor Regis. This will be on behalf of artists with a number of barriers preventing their artwork being displayed. The following local groups will be taking part: United Response Bognor CAN Capital Project Trust My Sisters' House The frames will be made for reuse at future exhibitions for the same or alternative art groups. The project will benefit 160 local people: 20 in vocational training, 80 from the art groups and 60 of their associated carers, friends & family, and all the attendees of the exhibition.

What we'll deliver:

• Provide 200 training days for socially isolated people
• Create 150 reusable picture frames for community art groups to display their work
• Organise exhibition to display community artwork
• Empower socially isolated individuals with confidence & skills to help them back into employment & volunteering
• Increase the mental and emotional wellbeing of the trainees, artists and attendees of the exhibition
• Help all involved to become more active members of their community

Why it's a great idea:

Here are some testimonials from people who have attended similar Frame of Mind programmes in the past: ‘Everyone should be sent here; it gives you hope.’ ‘I like Frame Of Mind as being a trainee I have learnt to make picture frames, had help filling out job applications & get to work with a great bunch of people. It has been a really worthwhile experience.’ ‘I can talk to people who understand what it’s like & understand what I’m going through. We can talk about different strategies on how to cope or overcome mental health problems. I also enjoy learning new skills and having something to show at the end of the day. I cannot thank Frame Of Mind enough for the support they have given me.’ 'I came to Frame Of Mind about six months ago & have suffered from depression & anxiety. Without Frame of Mind I would be still stuck inside looking at four walls; it has stopped me being so isolated.' ‘They talk to me like a person, not a target or an outcome.’ 'It is a community in itself.'

Steps to get it done:

• Schedule dates of training with participants
• Provide 800 training hours
• Create 150 frames for community art groups
• Organise community art exhibition at the Regis Centre
• Hold community art exhibition
• Evaluate impact of programme