Leeds education centre gets lottery grant to fund Art in Isolation project

The centre, in Woodhouse Square, Leeds, will use the funding to provide free art supplies and art tuition to those experiencing the impact of isolation due to the current pandemic. It will also host a celebratory ‘Freedom’ exhibition once the centre is allowed to re-open.

Julie Badon, chairman of trustees, said: “We are thrilled to receive this lottery funding, which will enable us to reach out to those feeling isolated in this coronavirus crisis. Swarthmore is very keen to maintain our adult learning community so that once we return to the centre, our learners will be happy to rejoin us. This is brilliant, and many thanks to the National Lottery.”

Swarthmore has been providing education to Leeds communities since 1909. It offers a safe and inclusive environment for adults to access a range of courses, including first steps education, arts and leisure courses and a study programme, along with offering affordable city centre room hire, and a cafe.

The new funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, which distributes money raised by National Lottery players for good causes and is the largest community funder in the UK, will allow Swarthmore to help its most vulnerable students to explore their creativity, learn new skills and have hope in the future.

Chris Baillie,director at Swarthmore, added: “We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way.

“Now, thanks to National Lottery players we will be able to support our community, develop skills and social connections, and look forward to a celebration once lock down has eased.”