See Me’s Anti-Stigma Arts Fund accepting applications from organisations and groups

The Anti-Stigma Arts Fund, managed by See Me, Scotland’s initiative to eradicate mental health stigma and discrimination, is now open for applications from organisations and groups in Lanarkshire. This fund, in its fourth year, aims to utilise the power of arts to challenge stereotypes and behaviours linked to mental health issues. The fund’s previous success has paved the way for its continuation, with diverse and impactful projects being supported in past years.

Established in 2021, the Anti-Stigma Arts Fund has facilitated various creative endeavours across Scotland that address mental health stigma. Projects have ranged from films exploring the stigma of male suicide to spoken word performances delving into the connection between mental health and gender perception. Noteworthy initiatives have included a public information comic co-created with young women who have faced abuse and homelessness, as well as a choir performance by female survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

For the upcoming 2024-25 period, organisations and groups in Scotland are invited to propose participatory creative projects that engage with individuals affected by mental health issues and poverty, racialised communities, physical disabilities, and past experiences of mental illness. Grants ranging from £500 to £5000 may be awarded to successful applicants. Maeve Grindall, the project officer for communities and priority groups at See Me, expressed excitement about the fund’s potential to generate impactful projects and enhance understanding of mental health stigma.

Applications for the Anti-Stigma Arts Fund must be submitted by midnight on January 9, focusing on meaningful engagement with diverse communities and prioritising inclusivity. Detailed information about the application process and past projects supported by the fund can be found on the See Me website. This initiative showcases the power of the arts in fostering empathy, challenging prejudices, and promoting mental health awareness.

In conclusion, the Anti-Stigma Arts Fund serves as a beacon of hope in the fight against mental health stigma, encouraging creativity and innovation to foster understanding and support for individuals facing mental health challenges. Through the arts, organisations and groups in Lanarkshire have the opportunity to make a positive impact and contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic society.