Breckland arts programme shortlisted for national award

A community project which offers art and craft activities in an effort to tackle social isolation in the Swaffham area has been shortlisted for a national award.

The Silver Social scheme, run by Breckland Council, offers a range of daytime activities in community venues across the district for people aged 60 and over.

The project has now been nominated for the Hearts For The Arts awards, which is organised by the National Campaign for the Arts.

And further events are planned to take place over the coming weeks.

Paul Claussen, Breckland Council’s executive member for place, said: “Being shortlisted by such a prestigious national award is the perfect endorsement for such an innovative scheme like the Silver Social.

“This wonderful project helps us reach out to the local community using various local and national artists to help reduce loneliness and improve mental health and well-being for our older residents.

“I would like to congratulate the hard working Silver Social team, volunteers and artists who have taken part in the project and wish them every success in the final.”

The winners of the awards are due to be announced at a ceremony in London on February 14. Judges include the writer and broadcaster Samira Ahmed and the actor Les Dennis.

The project is paid for through district and county council funding, as well as Arts Council investment.

Forthcoming events include performances by juggler Mat Ricardo at the village halls in Ashill and Necton on Monday, February 4 and Friday, February 8, plus a Little Bit of Light workshop, led by Glass House Dance, at the Swaffham Library on Tuesday, March 19. Visit www.thesilversocial.com for more details.