Pop Up Art – 14 Years of Creativity, Connection and Community Support

For 14 years, Pop Up Art has been a vital part of our community here at Life Change Changes Lives. What began as a small creative idea has grown into a welcoming, informal space where people can express themselves, build confidence and feel genuinely connected.

Pop Up Art has never been a static project. It has evolved year after year in response to what people tell us they need. That continues today. Referrals arrive regularly, and we’re always delighted to welcome newcomers alongside those who have been part of the group for many years. Whether someone is referred to us or simply walks through the door, they’re met with a relaxed, supportive environment where they can take part at their own pace.

Creativity sits at the heart of Pop Up Art, but the impact goes far beyond the artwork. The project helps reduce isolation, supports mental wellbeing and offers people a sense of belonging. It also works closely alongside our wider services at Life Change Changes Lives, ensuring that creative expression and emotional support sit naturally together.

As part of this, Pop Up Art provides access to professional counselling support. Our counselling provision is led by Manus Teague (RBACP), supported by a small team of part‑time counsellors. Together, they offer on‑demand emotional support in a safe, confidential setting — removing barriers and ensuring people can access help when they need it most.

Pop Up Art is sustained through a combination of funding streams, including Halifax funding, which helps support participants and core running costs not covered by NIHE Sustaining Tenancies or NIHE Homelessness Prevention funding. Each funder supports distinct elements of the project, and all funding is carefully managed to ensure there is no double funding. Like many community initiatives, it takes more than one funding stream to cover the true cost of delivery — and even then, funding doesn’t stretch to everything. That’s why we continue to fundraise, operate our social enterprise shop and run our social café, helping to sustain Pop Up Art and our wider community work.