We are partnering up with The Cotton Tree Trust (TCTT), which is a charity that supports refugees and migrants, and is formed of two branches. To explain a bit about what they do; the first branch is where lawyers work closely with members to help navigate the stressful process of obtaining documentation, sorting out accommodation and advising on financial aid resources that are available. The second branch is called Heal and Grow and is focused on supporting members with physical and mental wellbeing, as well as providing an opportunity to build strong connections and to create a community feeling amongst members through regular outings and activities such as trips to Kew Gardens, art therapy workshops, and more. 

We already felt that we had a lot in common such as striving to make a positive social change and harnessing art as a powerful tool, but what drew us to TCTT is the personal touch that was evident from the beginning of our partnership. Even before meeting in person, we were impressed by the amount of care and attention that goes into helping the members, from thinking about essentials such as WiFi and food vouchers, to the close personal relationships formed between the team and the members. After embarking on our partnership and carrying out in-person workshops, it became clear that there is a warm familial atmosphere that is ever present between the members and the team, based on mutual trust and respect. We felt very lucky to be welcomed by the members into their space, where they shared some of their experiences with us, readily participated in the workshop and came up with fantastic suggestions for the future direction we can take our partnership into. Together, guided by our amazing art lead, Elspeth, we created mind maps which are art pieces of the familiar routes we hold in our minds and the symbolic significance they carry for us. The members have kindly agreed to share their art with the public, so see if you can spot their pieces in our upcoming exhibition in May and read their explanations of the artistic choices they have made.

In the future, any profits from the funds that we are able to raise will go towards TCTT and help support the legal work, as well as the Heal and Grow branch. In the meantime, we are committed to delivering regular creative workshops for the members and our big dream at the moment is to organise a day trip to a gallery by the seaside! If you would like to donate or get involved, please get in touch, otherwise stay tuned for more updates on our partnership on our website.