Young Arts
SVDFAS has been instrumental in commissioning an exceeding talented artist to work in both the Barbara Russell Children's Unit at Frenchay Hospital, Bristol and the Ashfield Young Offenders Prison at Pucklechurch.
Matt Gilles, the Artist, has enabled the young male prisoners to create the most wonderful, huge eye-catching self portraits which now adorn the walls and corridors of the Prison. Creating these portraits has given the inmates a sense of satisfaction and self-worth, sometimes 
or the first time in their young lives.
The enchanting murals decorating the Children's Centre have the immediate effect of bringing a smile from young patients, their families and from Staff.
The nursing Team Leader has first hand knowledge of the therapeutic value of these murals.
We have now started a new project with a Young Carers Group in Bristol.
Matt Gilles, the Artist will be using the medium of visual arts with them, to provide respite care for children who are obliged to fulfil the daily responsibility of caring for a sick/disabled family member.This will take place between March and July 2010. Another similar project will take place in 2011.