A READING-based charity has received funding for its Focusing Minds initiative.
Real Time Video was awarded £1,800 by The John Sykes Foundation following a successful grant application.
Representatives of the foundation visited Real Time Video at its South Street Arts Centre location, to learn more about its inspiring work and to present a cheque.
The funding will support the charity’s Focusing Minds initiative, designed to benefit adults experiencing mental health challenges by providing creative learning opportunities and connecting participants with local voluntary groups.
The project helps individuals widen their social networks, develop new skills, and contribute positively to their communities through high-quality video production.
The educational organisation has been delivering community-based projects in Reading for more than 40 years.
It works with hard-to-reach and marginalised groups, using participatory media and hands-on creativity to empower individuals, foster communication, and promote social inclusion.
For the past decade, Focusing Minds has been offering weekly creative workshops in Reading.
Using a peer-support structure and flexible approach, it has been engaging and supporting people in Reading with mental health issues.
During the visit, the Foundation met with members of the Real Time team: Clive Robertson, Creative Director and Founder, and Tom Zajac, Producer, to gain insight into how the project empowers participants to share their personal stories through digital media, helping to build confidence, reduce stigma, and strengthen local community connections.
John Sykes said: “We’re delighted to support Real Time and their incredible project, Focusing Minds.
“Clive and his team’s creative approach provides a safe and powerful way for people with mental health challenges to explore their creativity and build connections through storytelling.”
Anyone working with or belonging to a local charity or community group who would like to learn more or apply for a grant, should visit: johnsykesfoundation.org, or: real-time.org.uk
