Some information on the 1 in 4 Theatre Group

A bit of history...
The 1 in 4 Theatre Group was started up with Lottery Funding in 2007-08 with the aim of creating a project for World Mental Health Day. The project, a play called Transitions, was developed by Mustard Seed service users with the help of 2 Drama Teachers. We performed at the Mind the Gap Festival in October 08, at our own World Mental Health Day event and at Canterbury College and have created a DVD documenting our efforts.

What do we offer?
We firmly believe in the therapeutic value of the arts in general and drama in particular. We offer a safe and supportive environment in which people who suffer from mental health problems have the chance to express themselves creatively and learn dramatic skills with the aim to improve wellbeing. We also aim to raise awareness among the general public.


What, Where, When
We meet every Wednesday morning for two hours. The group is based in Canterbury within walking distance of the city centre. Our meetings are informal and refreshments are provided.

Referrals
You will need to be referred to join the group. Referrals can either be arranged by your GP or care coordinator, or you can get in touch with us directly through Udi Perry at Chaucer Homecare Ltd on 01227 451834.

Who’s in charge?
The group is facilitated by Justine Staley, who has extensive dramatic and educational experience. However, the 1 in 4 Theatre Company is ultimately owned by the members of the group themselves, and everyone’s input is equally valid. This gives members the chance to try out various roles, to learn new skills and to take on responsibilities, but without any pressure.



Funding
Finding sources of funding and constructing bids for that funding is now an integral part of the group’s process and allows us to decide how the money is used. The current year’s funding has come to us from the East Kent Primary Care Trust from their Promoting Mental Health and Wellbeing fund.