Free Let's Create art packs for children in lockdown thanks to Arts Council England and The National Lottery
Thousands of art packs are being distributed to children in the county as lockdown restrictions continue for families.
Arts Council England has compiled and is now distributing the activity packs to children and young people across a number of regions including Kent.
The Let's Create packs are aimed at both primary and secondary school-aged children most in need of support as the coronavirus outbreak continues to prevent many young children returning to school or other activities.
The packs contain art supplies such as pens, pencils, paper, crayons and a scrapbook alongside a booklet suggesting a number of creative activities.
With many restrictions on what children can enjoy still in force and school only resuming for a small number of pupils often on restricted days or hours, the packs are likely to bring welcome relief to families in desperate need of something for their youngsters to do.
There are 25,000 packs being distributed across England thanks to National Lottery funding.
In the South East, with Kent amongst the places set to receive packs, organisation Artswork is working with a variety of groups and charities to reach children who would benefit most from having the Let's Create boxes at home.
Local charities, councils, food banks and community groups be amongst those working to identify and reach the most eligible families in the coming weeks.
Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, we’re helping children to lead creative lives during lockdown. We know that being creative teaches young people new skills, as well as increasing their overall happiness and wellbeing.
"These art boxes will help more children from every background get the chance to flourish despite the challenges they’re facing right now.”
Creative activities, alongside being fun and designed to keep children busy, can also boost mental health well being and confidence.
Rosy Greenlees, executive director of the Crafts Council, which is also involved in the project, said: “We know that many children don’t have access to simple items such as pens, paper, or scissors - we hope that by providing these packs we can provide vulnerable children with the chance to do something creative and make something they can be proud of.
"We want to ensure that every child is able to express themselves and we know that making is a great way to do that."
To understand more about the Arts Council's work surrounding the coronavirus outbreak please click here.
