TWAM receives £24,980 grant from Peter Sowerby Foundation

Image: Nigel John Photography

Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums (TWAM) has received a grant of £24,980 from the Peter Sowerby Foundation to support arts and heritage activities for older people in residential and clinical care settings.

The grant will allow TWAM’s communities team to create bespoke online training for health and social care professionals.

Carers will learn how they can use two existing resources to enrich their day-to-day work with older people: museum object loan boxes and the Museums, Health and Social Care activity pack created by TWAM and Northumbria University.

Keith Merrin, Director of Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, said:

“We are very grateful to the Peter Sowerby Foundation for funding this vital work. The grant allows us to continue developing strategic partnerships with the Health and Social care sector. Together, we are harnessing the power of museums to respond to the urgent needs of the local community.

Sophie Mitchell, Outreach Officer at Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, said:

“The ultimate aim is to work with our colleagues in the Health and Care sector, bringing together culture, health and wellbeing in order to improve quality of life. 

“Our resources can support many different clinical outcomes, from physical wellbeing, mobility and social interaction to cognitive ability, learning and emotional support.” 

The Peter Sowerby Foundation was established in 2011 thanks to a generous endowment by Dr Sowerby, to fulfil his philanthropic vision and charitable priorities.

The Foundation awards grants in the areas of Healthcare Innovation, Education & Learning and Community & Environment. To date, over £10 million has been awarded to charities, community groups and healthcare providers.

Communities at TWAM

For over 20 years, TWAM has developed community outreach programmes that recognise the positive health impacts of cultural participation. Its five main areas of community work are:

• The Wellbeing programme, promoting positive mental health;
• The Platinum programme, working with over 55s;
• The Recovery programme, working with people in addiction recovery and/or the Criminal Justice System;
• The Network programme, working with the community in targeted locations;
• The Multaka programme, providing development opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers.

By fusing creativity with health and wellbeing, TWAM aims to help create a healthier, happier and more equal society.  

To learn more about community outreach at TWAM, please visit: twmuseums.org.uk/communities

Please contact: Jonathan.Loach@twmuseums.org.uk