Explore how art can comfort people with lived experience of social isolation and Alcohol Related Brain Damage (ARBD) in this hands-on event. Try different creative processes and games co-created by Rowan Alba and the National Galleries of Scotland.

Rowan Alba supports people with experience of homelessness, addiction and trauma to improve their lives. Our befriending programme; CARDS, builds relationships with people whose long-term drinking has led to poor mental health and social isolation. None are accessing mental health support. Volunteers deliver 1-1 befriending to over 100 clients across Edinburgh helping them re-learn trusting relationships, build confidence to leave their house, make social connections and engage in community support.

Most of our clients use alcohol to cope with trauma. “I started drinking age 11 because I was scared of my life.” Our clients are marginalised due to the effects of years of heavy drinking. This has led to the development of Alcohol Related Brain Damage (ARBD) and social isolation. “Before I met my volunteer I couldn’t go out. I had fallen out with my family and didn’t speak to them. I didn’t speak to anyone.”

Individuals often remain un-noticed until crisis. “The police called me as John set his kitchen on fire while drinking… I was the only number on his phone”. (Volunteer)

“My life is empty except for the TV.”

Since 2013 we have been working with National Galleries of Scotland to use art to improve client wellbeing. Our partnership has grown from a one-off photography project to regular artist-led sessions and a monthly zine. “Drawing has been what’s kept me going.” “It’s great to feel part of something.”

In this workshop you will get to try out some of the simple art processes we’ve used over the years to improve health & wellbeing with our group.

You’ll also be able to interact with some games that we have developed with our partners and service-users to gain a deeper understanding of some of the barriers and difficulties faced on a daily basis by our group.