“We’re proud to join forces”
Trinity Centre (file image)(Image: James Beck/Freelance)
A new alliance between Trinity Community Arts and the Bristol Drugs Project (BDP) promises to expand access to creative outlets for people affected by drug and alcohol use, with both organisations working together to tackle stigma and build community through the power of artistic expression.
The partnership brings together Trinity’s year-round cultural programme with BDP’s Creative Communities initiative — a decade-old scheme offering weekly arts events and group activities designed to foster confidence, skill development and social connection.
Creative Communities, a programme known for promoting inclusivity and challenging the stereotypes surrounding substance use, will now host many of its long-running groups at Trinity’s iconic venue in St Judes. The collaboration also sees Trinity become one of the venues for Bristol Sober Spaces — a network of alcohol-free environments designed to welcome all, regardless of background or past experience.
Lydia Plant, chief executive of Bristol Drugs Project, said: “We’re proud to join forces with Trinity, learning from each other and using creativity as a force for social change. From hosting Bristol Sober Spaces events to welcoming our thriving groups into Trinity’s iconic building, we are excited to create safe, inclusive spaces that foster connection and community together.”
Adam Gallacher, deputy chief executive at Trinity Community Arts, added: “This partnership brings together two brilliant organisations with a shared belief in the power of creativity to support people to live more active, connected, and fulfilling lives.
“By aligning our values and combining our strengths, we’re creating more inclusive spaces where everyone can express themselves, build confidence, and feel part of something positive.”
He also noted plans to co-develop bespoke creative programmes tailored to the needs of Bristol residents, further enhancing Trinity’s adult offerings in the areas of inclusion, health and wellbeing.
The initiative has received positive feedback from those directly involved, including Hamilton, a peer member of Creative Communities, who said: “I think that this partnership can be a great stride in the journey of Creative Communities. Space to grow and more people to support and nurture that growth.”
BDP, which has been providing non-judgemental support for nearly 40 years, recently launched a new partnership service called Horizons. The service continues its mission of offering free, community-oriented assistance to people across Bristol.
Each year, Trinity Community Arts welcomes more than 73,000 visitors to its diverse programme of arts, heritage and cultural events, all guided by its values to respond, empower and amplify.