Satellites

Satellites is our creative & performing arts workshop programme for people who are learning disabled, have mental health issues or enduring health problems

Inspiring creative and performing arts workshops for learning disabled people

Satellites is for people aged 18 years and over who are learning disabled and
• passionate about the arts
• want to join in an exciting creative journey
• learn creative skills
• and make new friends.

It all happens at Headway ArtSpace in Blyth, on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday every week from 10am to 3pm.

 

Introduction

At Headway Arts we are proud of our reputation for offering high quality participatory workshops which offer meaningful artistic experiences for all those involved. Our experienced arts practitioners are committed to inclusive ways of working and are trained in the Headway Arts co-creative methodology—our award winning person centred approach.

We are specialists at including people. We nurture a team approach, positive relationships, interactions and good communication, valuing the cultural contribution of everyone involved.

Aside from developing artistic skill there are numerous benefits to taking part in our Satellites workshops, supporting both mental and physical wellbeing:

reduce stress & anxiety levels;
develop social skills & friendships; self-awareness; imagination, self-expression & creativity; teamwork; verbal & non-verbal communication skills;
improve fitness, strength, flexibility, balance & coordination; positivity; confidence & self-esteem; concentration & motivation.

If you’d like to book a place on one of our free taster days for yourself or a client get in touch by phone (01670351962) or email (admin@headwayarts.co.uk).

 

Free Satellites taster days

Taster days are the perfect opportunity to find out all about our Satellites workshops and whether they’re something you’d enjoy coming along to regularly.

Get in touch to discuss arranging a free taster day!

 

Mondays are Dance Days

Dancing makes us feel good! It helps us to be more confident, fit and healthy. A professional dance artist leads these expressive and enjoyable dance and creative movement sessions which explore different ways of making a move. Beginners welcome to join anytime.

Tuesdays are for Creative Arts

Explore a galaxy of arts! Including:
• Painting
• Drawing
• Collage
• Photography
• Music-making
Everyone is welcome.

Wednesdays are Drama Days

These sessions help us to
• Creatively express ourselves
• Communicate
• Explore new situations
• Try out ideas
• Be inspired
• Build confidence
Drama days are great for beginners and are led by professional drama workers.

Thursdays are for Theatre Skills

For starry eyed people with a passion for being on stage.
• Creative writing
• Actor training
• Performing
• Puppetry
• Set, costume, make-up and more!
Beginners are welcome to join this group run by professional theatre artists.

If you would like to arrange an appointment to discuss our work or your needs, or to make a booking, please contact us on 01670 351962 or admin@headwayarts.co.uk

 

On The Day

Times
Each session starts at 10am and finishes at 3pm. A typical day is as follows:
9.45am people begin to arrive
10.00am day begins with warm-up/introductions
10.45am break time
11.00am workshop begins
12.30pm lunch break
1.30pm workshop resumes
2.50pm workshop ends
3.00pm day ends

Lunch
Bring your own packed lunch. We have a microwave, kettle and toaster. We have cups, plates, bowls, cutlery & a tin opener!

Clothing
Wear comfy clothes and shoes. You might like to bring or wear clothes that you don’t mind getting covered in paint if you’re coming to a creative arts session! We do have white painting jackets which can also be worn.

Supporters/Carers
You might like to have your supporter or care worker with you for a little while or even the full day. Support workers are encouraged to join in and be part of the group.

Location and Building
All sessions take part in our lovely building which we call Headway ArtSpace. We are on the main street through Blyth town centre. You can read more about how to find us on our contact page.
We have a wheelchair accessible entrance through the garden. We have an accessible loo. Satellites sessions take part in our big open Studio space on the ground floor.

Feedback from participants

“Before coming to Headway Arts I was sitting at home doing nothing. I was frustrated and bored. That made me angry. Now I can join my friends and make plays because I’m an actor.” -Adam
“When we stop to have lunch I just want to get back out there. I want to use different heights, move in different ways.” -Andy talking about Monday dance sessions
“I like the freedom, being able to express yourself, and the company. It’s relaxed.” -Art session member
“I love doing this … I feel I have got something to really look forward to.” -Art session member

Notes

WHEN: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday every week from 10am to 3pm.
WHERE: It all happens at our lovely building Headway ArtSpace in Blyth.
COST: £51.50 per day (from 1st April 2023)

If you have been given a Personal Budget from the local authority you could speak to your Care Manager about using some of it to pay to come to Satellites.

OTHER STUFF: We can help organise transport but we cannot pay for it. Carers and supporters welcome too. If you have any questions get in touch!

 

Satellites is supported using public funding by Arts Council England
Satellites is supported by the Big Lottery Fund

We gratefully acknowledge the generous support of all our funders which currently includes:

  • Arts Council England
  • Blyth Town Council
  • Community Foundation
  • Edward Gostling Foundation – RW Mann Trust – Shears Foundation
  • Erasmus+
  • Great Northumberland
  • Hadrian Trust – High Sheriff of Northumberland – Rothley Trust
  • Heritage Fund
  • National Lottery Community Fund
  • Northumberland County Council
  • Postcode Community Trust
  • Scope
  • Sir James Knott Trust
  • The 1989 Willan Trust – Wellesley Trust
  • the Coalfields Regeneration Trust