Creative Arts Self Help Group in Clackmannanshire (Scotland)

Reachout, based in Alloa, Clackmannanshire was established in 1993, initially as a Drama group for adults experiencing mental health distress or interested in mental health issues or, who just wanted to act.

The motivation has remained constant and throughout the years Reachout has continued to develop and diversify into a multi art form project exploring a diverse range of creative arts, music and drama.

Members have published poems and articles, presented workshops, exhibited numerous exhibitions of work and produced a video.

This year members have chosen to participate in workshops such as:

Photography, Creative Writing, Illustration, Stained Glass, Batik, Stone Carving, Drama, Video, Sculpture, Drawing & Painting

When you come along to Reachout you will be surprised by the open and friendly nature of the project. We believe that this is due to the fact that members are involved in the day to day management of Reachout and every month we have a members meeting where 'you' decide what art form you would like to try out. The workshops are usually in a series of one per week for 4-6 weeks and are led by professional artists who are there to pass on their skills and also to let you experiment with your own ideas!

We are open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 11.30am - 4pm on a drop - in basis where you can sit back, relax, listen to music, read, chat or continue to work on your own project. There is no formal joining procedure and no fees. Even tea, coffee & biscuits are free!

We are currently developing drama workshops to highlight the positive effects Reachout provides to members, families and the local community through raising awareness, provoking reflection and challenging oppressive stereotypes.

Local people are being given the opportunity to participate in a range of creative experiences such as role play, dance & song, video, music composition, media and visual arts. The drama project will culminate in a video performance, which will entertain, inform and most importantly illustrate the positive aspect of being involved in a self-help group such as Reachout.

On a more serious note Reachout campaigns to promote positive mental health by taking our workshops into the community. Reachout has established links locally and as far afield as Australia, USA and New Zealand.

Reachout are based at 4/8 Glasshouse loan, Alloa, FK10 1PF

Telephone: 01259 723666

E-Mail us on : reach_out@tiscali.co.uk