Mansfield Palace Theatre

That’s the aim of the game for a new community initiative between Mansfield Palace Theatre’s Learning and Aspiration team and Nottingham and Nottinghamshire NHS, thanks to funding support from Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board (ICB).

The Make a Start scheme was derived from the coronavirus pandemic and offered those at risk of isolation or anxious to re-enter social settings an opportunity to meet in a relaxed environment at the theatre and enjoy activities such as chair based exercises, arts and crafts and singing. As word spread and the project grew, feedback also indicated that others would love to attend but barriers such as transport, money and weather conditions were preventing this.

The solution? If you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you! The rest, as they say, is history as ‘Make a Start in the Community’ was born, with weekly sessions already seeing good numbers of attenders, including one who tells us:

“The scheme is a lifeline for me and allows me to get out and see people and get moving, rather than be stuck at home staring at four walls all day”.

The initiative provides social connections where people of all ages can enjoy a cup of tea and a friendly chat while making new friends. It offers creative activities such as fun arts and crafts to improve dexterity, gentle exercise to boost physical health through chair-based exercises, engaging games such as ever-popular bingo, plus music and laughter to encourage singing along and smiling together.

Cllr Angie Jackson, Joint Portfolio Holder for Wellbeing, Health, and Safer Communities, said:

“Mansfield Palace Theatre offer a diverse range of educational and creative programmes in partnership with organisations who share the same values.  It makes sense therefore to work together with local NHS providers to offer sessions in the community to bring together those who may be experiencing loneliness, or who need support to get out and about and active, to meet new people or try new activities”.

Sessions are held weekly at the following times and venues; join us soon - you’re guaranteed a warm welcome:

Flint Avenue Community Centre

Flint Avenue, Forest Town, NG19 0DS

Wednesdays, from 1pm to 2.30pm

Stacey Road Community Centre

Stacey Road, Mansfield, NG19 7JJ

Thursdays, from 11am to 12.30pm

There is no charge to attend and transport can be arranged for those who require it. If you or someone you know would like to find out more or get involved, please contact Marie on mwragg@mansfield.gov.uk or 01623 463520.