For many of us, figuring out what works for us to maintain and improve our emotional and mental health can be a long and discouraging journey. Additionally, there are frequently significant waiting lists and fees associated with much-needed help. You may have attempted to use a service in the past but discovered it was not working for you, leading you to feel even more isolated than before.

ONCA is an arts charity devoted to using creativity to address ongoing issues both physical, emotional and mental. In this regard, we’ve gathered a list of resources together for all of us to accompany our current exhibition – We The Human: A Quiet Blue Wall.

This is a work in progress that will change and be added to over time.

Dresscue at ONCA

ONCA’s welcoming drop-in sewing space to make, mend and up-cycle. Dresscue provides a free space, sewing machines, material and support for anyone curious about mending and making with textiles. Over the years, Dresscue has grown into a welcoming community in which we are able to learn from one another and explore our own ability to mend and make.

When: Friday’s, 10am – 1pm, from 13 January 2023

Where: ONCA Gallery, 14 St George’s Place, Brighton BN1 4GB

ONCA Community Afternoons –  Bristol Estate Community Room, Whitehawk

Expect to see some friendly faces from your local community, a cuppa or two and a creative arts or crafts activity for you to take part in. All the sessions will be very relaxed and informal, just drop-in for as long or as little as you like.

When: Friday’s, 2:30 – 4:30pm, from 13 January 2023

Where: Bristol Estate Community Room, Donald Hall Road, Brighton BN2 5DE

Artspace Brighton

Artspace Brighton is an arts and mental health charity providing a community-based studio for people with experience of mental health issues. Artspace increases opportunities for people with experience of mental health issues to engage with art activities in a stable and supportive space. Self referrals are welcomed with a supportive statement from a professional.

When: Tuesday & Thursday, 10am – 5pm*

Where: 61a Bowring Way, Brighton, East Sussex, BN2 5DG

*contact in advance via email before attending:

Men in Sheds

Men in Sheds, Kemptown is part of UOK, a network of local services committed to supporting good mental health and wellbeing in Brighton and Hove. Members share the tools and resources they need to work on projects of their own choosing at their own pace and in a safe, friendly and inclusive venue. Activities provide structure and companionship but without emphasis on discussion of mental wellbeing. This approach can be described as ‘shoulder to shoulder’ rather than ‘face to face’.

Please note there is currently a waiting list for this service, more info coming soon.

The Ledward Centre

The Ledward Centre is a safe and inspiring place for the LGBTQ+ communities and their friends. Alongside the cafe the centre also offers a range of events, workshops and art exhibitions. Pull up a chair and make yourself at home. 

Opening times: Monday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm & Sunday 10am – 4pm

Where: Unit 14a Jubilee Street, Brighton BN1 1GE

The Wellbeing Hub at Preston Park

The Wellbeing Hub at Preston Park is a Sussex-based housing, care and support provider committed to supporting people’s mental health and wellbeing. The Wellbeing Hub is open seven days a week. The Hub provides a welcoming and supportive environment in which people with mental health support needs can learn new skills and get involved in a variety of groups and activities. The hub offers both individual and group support.

Activities include:

• Physical health classes in yoga, tai chi and qigong
• Holistic health appointments for shiatsu and homoeopathy
• Creativity groups in art, craft, anti-stress colouring, and mixed media (clay, mosaic, felting)
• Peer support group for voice hearers and/or people who see visions
• Individual computer tuition
• Free service and available to adults ages 18 and over living in Brighton and Hove
• New referrals are welcomed as of the 3rd January 2023

When: open seven days a week*

Where: 18 Preston Park Avenue, Brighton, BN1 6HL

*attendance via appointment only, call 01273 565 049 or email to book