A COMMUNITY art group supporting the health and wellbeing of its members has welcomed a ‘lifeline’ grant from a North East building society.

Darlington Building Society has helped secure the future of the group – named The Art of Survival – by making a donation of £2,000 to cover the costs of renting a room at Darlington Hippodrome Theatre.

The group was established by the inspirational Ken Longstaff, a former Darlington mechanic who is confined to a wheelchair after being struck down with a rare neurological condition, Guillain Barre Syndrome, in 2012.

After discovering that painting was an invaluable form of therapy for himself, Ken decided to launch a group so others could experience the health benefits of art.

Ken’s carer, Anne Hankin, who works for local company Care Matters, helps Ken run the group, which is also tackling isolation in the local community.

(Image: Peter Barron)

The grant to cover a year’s rent came from Darlington Building Society’s annual pledge to donate 5% of its profits to good causes.

Ken said: “Renting a safe and convenient place for us to meet once a week is our biggest cost, along with providing art materials, so the grant from Darlington Building Society is a lifeline. It gives us greater security and we can’t thank the building society enough.”

The good news about the grant was delivered by Darlington Building Society Distribution Director, Louise Thorpe, along with Director of People and Culture, Helen Easton.

Louise said: “The Art of Survival group is performing a vital role in the community and it’s really humbling to see how Ken has created something so special despite his own health challenges. It was a privilege to see the group in action, talk to members, and support them with one of our 5% grants.”

Members of the group include 82-year-old Ann Littlefield, who is recovering from a heart attack and a stroke and has had problems with depression.

(Image: Peter Barron)

She said: “I joined the group for company and to rediscover my love of painting which I haven’t done for 20 years or so. Everyone has been so friendly, and being part of the group has helped me enormously because being in a flat on your own can be like a prison.

“I think it’s tremendous that Darlington Building Society is paying the rent and showing its support in such a practical way.”

Evelyn Hedley, who has been a member for three years, added: “To have the security of knowing the rent will be paid is so important. The group is a lifesaver for a lot of people – I’ve always loved art and now I’ve made new friends.”

Since launching its 5% Pledge in 2017, Darlington Building Society has donated more than £818,000 to local charities and grass roots organisations making a difference to local people. In 2023 alone, the Society gave out grants totalling more than £158,000 to 42 local organisations.