Wolverhampton-based charity Good Shepherd has launched a monthly creative mentoring programme, made possible through Arts Council England (ACE) funding, running alongside its weekly art workshops for people in recovery from addiction, mental health issues and homelessness.
The programme is designed to support participants in developing their creative practice and confidence. Through tailored mentoring sessions, participants are exploring portfolio development, art theory and criticism, as well as branding and merchandising within the creative industries. The programme also supports individuals to better understand how to access and make the most of creative opportunities.
Kate Penman, Creative Lead for the Good Shepherd said:
“Thanks to Arts Council funding, we’ve been able to expand our arts offer for people in recovery. The sessions so far have been really well received, giving participants the confidence to explore different art disciplines and strengthen their recovery journey”.
The first mentoring sessions were delivered by local photographer Nathan Allen, who supported participants to build confidence in using their digital cameras while encouraging them to share and develop their creative goals.
Nathan Allen, Photographer and Creative Mentor said:
“Working with the photography group has been a genuinely rewarding experience. To see the group gain technical photography skills, develop a passion for the subject and be able to help them gain knowledge and understanding has been an honour.”
Further mentoring sessions and masterclasses have taken place with artist Charlotte Webb at Wolverhampton Art Gallery, exploring illustration, branding and merchandise. Additional sessions led by Hannah Boyd McKee at The Art Room, Wolverhampton Arts Centre, focused on art criticism, broadening the programme across a range of creative disciplines and venues.
Pictured from left to right Matt, Corey, Kate Penman, Beau and Nathan Allen
Corey, participant in the Recovery Art Group said:
“After being out of education for a while, it feels like I’m a student again. I’ve realised how much I love to learn and create. The mentors have been a great support and help us look at our work from a different perspective.“
Through the funding, participants have also been able to take part in visits to events and exhibitions, including The Photography and Video Show 2026 at the Birmingham NEC and Walsall Art Gallery.
Beau, another participant of the Recovery Art Group said:
“The mentoring sessions have given me the chance to spend time with a familiar and friendly group of people on outings that I wouldn’t be able to arrange myself. It makes a welcome change of pace.”
The Good Shepherd Recovery Art Group is now working towards its large-scale public exhibition at Wolverhampton Arts Centre to mark Recovery Month in September 2026.
Supported using public funding by Arts Council England.