TEND to wellbeing

This opportunity is for information only -- all places have now been filled.

TEND to wellbeing

in association with Birds of Paradise

In these difficult times, this is an offer of CPD for freelance creative leaders in Scotland, which aims to not only support their own wellbeing but also develop wellbeing practices and skills that can be integrated into their future creative practice.

You’ll be part of a small group of six participants which will meet across four 90-minute weekly sessions, to learn and share experiences which develop your wellbeing toolkit for self-care and for supporting those you work with.

Sessions will be held online at 10:30am for four consecutive weeks:

  • Tuesdays 12th, 19th, 26th January and 2nd February

  • Thursdays 14th, 21st, 28th January and 4th February

  • Tuesdays 9th, 16th, 23rd February and 2nd March

You will need to indicate availability for each set of dates in the application form.

We know creative practitioners' time is valuable. Attendees not already paid for their time can receive £150 to support participation in the programme, payable following completion of a short evaluation form at the end.

Although the application deadline is 10th December, we strongly advise you to apply as soon as you can: some places will be allocated before the deadline.

Who is this for?

  • Freelance creatives who lead projects based in live performance: theatre/dance makers, creative producers, live art practitioners, designers, directors, production managers, etc -- whose practice has been adversely affected by the pandemic

  • We are unable at present to offer places to those whose work is principally as a performer in other practitioners’ projects.

  • Participants must be based in Scotland

  • We expect demand to exceed the places available, and will prioritise people whose experiences or heritage are under-represented in the arts.

About the programme:

This four-session programme will provide a dedicated time and space for participants to explore and lean into wellbeing practices, strategies and philosophies. Led by Artist Wellbeing Practitioner, Lou Platt, the group will explore the following areas:

  • Basic principles in developing psychological safety within creative teams, companies and collectives

  • Working with autobiographical and challenging material

  • Responsibilities, boundaries and limitations to care within the workplace

Alongside the guidance from Lou, drawn from her eight years as an artist wellbeing practitioner, the group will also draw from their own inherent expertise and experiences. Participants will be invited to offer their own relevant stories, lived experiences, best practices and learnings from prior successes or failures in order to enhance the group process. For more information on Lou, please visit www.artistwellbeing.co.uk

Please note that this is a professional development opportunity, and not intended to relieve immediate mental health issues. If you require advice on individual mental health support, call Mind’s Infoline on 0300 123 3393 or text 86463.

If you think you are in a crisis,

  • Call the Samaritans on 116 123 or text 07725 909090

  • Go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department and tell the staff how you are feeling

  • Contact NHS 111

This project is funded by Foundation Scotland from Response Fund, and delivered in association with Birds of Paradise.