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Healthy art makes for healthy minds

Wednesday 23 February 2011

The University of East London’s Students’ Union has joined together with local mental health charity, Mind, to host a series of exciting new creative arts events in Newham. ‘Do You Mind?’ not only provides University students with the opportunity to engage with members of the east London community, but aims to break down some of the stigmas surrounding mental health through events such as poetry readings and artists’ workshops over the coming months.

Students are being asked to share their stories about mental health, whether from personal experiences or those of friends and family, and turn them into pieces of art and creative writing. Those who submit their work may see it showcased in a short film which will be screened at a launch event in June. Budding musicians will also be given the chance to perform live at the same event.

Shahida Aslam, UELSU Volunteers & Community Engagement Coordinator, said of the collaboration: “I am looking forward to students sharing their stories. I am particularly excited as the students will be encouraged to let their creative juices flow. I am equally delighted that the partnership with Mind started with the My Friday project and has developed into working more closely with the service users from Mind.”

Shahan Islam, Support Services Coordinator at Mind, said: “This is a very exciting project. We have had lots of interest already but there is still timeto submit your work. We feel that this is a very important and relevant project which aims to raise awareness, tackle stigma and discrimination, and give hope. Please join us in our campaign and send in your work.”

The closing date for entries is Thursday 31 March. For more information, and a list of events, contact Shahida via shahida@uel.ac.uk or 07872 600 992

Notes to Editors

The University of East London (UEL) is a global learning community with over 28,000 students from over 120 countries world-wide. Our vision is to achieve recognition, both nationally and internationally, as a successful and inclusive regional university proud of its diversity, committed to new modes of learning which focus on students and enhance their employability, and renowned for our contribution to social, cultural and economic development, especially through our research and scholarship. We have a strong track-record in widening participation and working with industry.

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