Magnetic Ideals are a collective of community workers, artists, researchers and activists in Brighton & Hove. They run projects and provide support within the community around the topics of arts for community interest and social sustainability.

A recent grant from the Foundation funded their project 'Reconnect!', offering a range of engaging and creative sessions. Reconnect! aims to promote community connection and skills development, helping participants to get back on track with their lives.

Workshops at Reconnect!

The programme of free workshops focused on confidence building and personal development, also helping developing creative and technical skills alongside employability around sustainability.

Participants worked on their skills around felting, lino printing, clay modelling and collage, using natural materials. The workshops encouraged hands-on creativity, social connection and mental wellbeing.

Bringing people together

Those attending enjoyed a warm, welcoming atmosphere and many opportunities for meaningful conversation. The programme brought people together to reconnect with their creative sides and each other while upskilling knowledge around sustainability and wellbeing.

B's story

B, a single mother in her 40s, enjoyed creative and art but found it difficult to prioritise them above the demands of work and family life. Struggling with anxiety and a sense of isolation, she joined one of the Magnetic Ideals Reconnect! workshops.

B attended a felting session with her teenage son, who had autism and was initially reluctant to participate. She said that the relaxed, supportive atmosphere helped both of them engage fully, and by the end of the workshop, they had created beautiful felt decorations together.

B took part in other sessions, reconnecting with her creative side and meeting like-minded individuals. She has now built friendships with other attendees, which eased her feelings of isolation. Inspired by the lino printing workshop, B has purchased her own starter kit and began making handmade cards at home.

B credits the Reconnect! programme with improving her mental health, and as a source of creativity, community, and wellbeing that extended into her everyday life, positively transforming her outlook and self-esteem.

To find out more about Magnetic Ideals visit their website.

The Reaching Potential report, the latest in the Sussex Uncovered series, highlights the challenges our county faces. It also emphasises the vital role local charities play in helping disadvantaged individuals reach their full potential.

Read the report Reaching Potential.