Scope’s disabled artists range now online

The disability equality charity Scope now has displays in its shops with some outstanding artwork that talented disabled artists have created. But if you don’t have a Scope shop near you, they have also now opened an online store so you can buy the art that way. It’s not just prints – they sell the beautiful designs on cotton and recycled plastic-bottle wash bags, art prints, candles and mugs too. I think it is colourful and bold and interesting. In the Gillingham shop, where I volunteer, one customer saw a collection by artist Kate Boyce and said “Wow that’s fantastic!”

Vivian Nutt, Head of Customer Proposition, Retail at Scope, says: ‘We’ve really had to be more creative and ingenious in our fundraising since the start of the pandemic and the cost of living crisis and this is an incredibly exciting development for us. Scope puts disabled people at the heart of everything we do and, working with four superbly talented disabled artist and designers, our collaboration has produced a stunning range of unique products that are perfect for yourself or make a truly special gift for anyone.

‘I encourage everyone to visit our shop – either in person or online – and see the beautiful ranges for themselves. Every purchase helps fund our vital support services that are a lifeline for disabled people and helps us to campaign for a fairer society.’

One of my personal favourite pieces is called Boats Ahoy!

The artist, Mahlia Amanita, has Asperger’s syndrome and her work has been displayed in seven countries. This design is currently available on a range of items as well as available to purchase as a print. Be sure to check out the wonderful work that all the artists have made.

You can find the Disabled Artists collections on the Scope website here shop.scope.org.uk

Mosaic are a Dorset based charity supporting bereaved children and young people, their families and the professionals working with them.

Founded in 2007, Mosaic was created to fill the gap in bereavement provision across the county. Prior to this, support for bereaved children and young people was limited – the only support available was from hospices offering support after the death of someone suffering from a long-term illness. Mosaic support children and young people who have been bereaved of someone special –perhaps a parent, sibling, friend or extended family. This includes all causes of death such as sudden death, suicide, murder or road traffic accident, not just long-term illness.

If you require further information about Mosaic’s service, please do not hesitate to contact us: 01258 837071 info@mosaicfamilysupport.org mosaicfamilysupport.org

Diverse Abilities is on the hunt for volunteers

Dorset’s disability charity, Diverse Abilities, is looking for volunteers for the coming year to help with ongoing projects and a series of community events throughout the year. Events on the 2023 calendar include:

• Diverse Abilities own events:

Dorset Neon Run Country Challenge

Rugby Lunch

Gala Ball

Christmas Carol Service the charity’s annual Christmas tree collection service

• Community events including Grooves on the Green, Wimborne Folk Festival and Camp Bestival, as well as street collections throughout the year, with further events to be confirmed.

Laura Stanley, fundraising officer at Diverse Abilities, commented: ‘We’ve got an exciting calendar of events this year where we need the help of our local community in order to take on a variety of tasks including bucket collections, running stalls, and handing out flyers, as well as raising awareness of Diverse Abilities. You’ll have a great time, as well as helping to raise money to support children and adults with disabilities in the local area.’ As well as events, Diverse Abilities are also on the lookout for volunteers on more a regular basis, for roles such as a transport assistant at the Beehive to support students getting to and from the centre, and gardening or decorating roles across the charities’ services.

Volunteers are crucial to the work charities like Diverse Abilities carry out, and donating free time is just as valuable as giving money. In turn, the opportunities give volunteers a chance to learn new skills, meet new people, enhance CVs, gain experience, discover new interests and improve mental wellbeing. Visit the website here for more information about the roles available. Contact Laura on volunteer@diverseabilities.org.uk if you would like to get involved.