Canvas to Change: Empowering young people into adulthood – A mixed-methods evaluation

Background<br/>Arty-Folks is an art and mental health charity based in Coventry and Warwickshire, supporting adults with their mental health. The Canvas to Change project, funded by the Heart of England Community Foundation, extended this support to young people aged 16 and above, aiming to improve their health and wellbeing through creative processes and peer support.<br/>Research aim<br/>The research aimed to evaluate the therapeutic, social, and educational value of the Canvas to Change project for young people aged 16-25 using both quantitative and qualitative methods.<br/>Key findings<br/>Therapeutic Impact: Engagement with the program significantly improved several mental well-being indicators, such as feeling close to others, optimism about the future, and reduced loneliness. There was a 75% reduction in the use of emergency services, 20% reduced their mental health medication usage, and 10% stopped using medication entirely.<br/>Social and Community Impact: Participants highly valued the creative process, social interactions, and the supportive environment. The program enhanced social confidence and feelings of connection among participants. They reported a supportive network where mental health discussions were normalised, and stigma was reduced. Additionally, the program helped participants develop coping mechanisms, increase self-awareness, and build independence.<br/>Educational and Career Impact: Participants experienced increased confidence and readiness to pursue educational or career opportunities. They appreciated the guidance and support in building strong portfolios and preparing for educational or career routes.<br/>Programme Implementation: The program received high levels of satisfaction with 100% of participants recommending it to others. Participants were pleased with the program structure, facilitator support, and the non-clinical, user-centred approach. Suggestions for improvement included better on-site facilities, more one-to-one sessions, and a more optimistic approach to future planning. Additional recommendations included offering multiple methods of initial contact, adjusting group sizes, and improving the physical environment.<br/>Conclusion<br/>The Canvas to Change project has demonstrated significant therapeutic, social, and educational benefits for young people transitioning to adulthood. The program's flexible, creative, and supportive approach has been effective in improving mental well-being and social confidence, while also preparing participants for future educational and career opportunities. Continued refinement and implementation of participant feedback will further enhance the program's impact and accessibility.