The ‘GIFT OF CREATIVITY CHRISTMAS CRAFTS’ PROGRAMME 

In December the group was successful in its funding application to the Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB) to run a Christmas Crafts programme throughout December, in the lead up to Christmas, when restrictions were at level three.

Access 2000/NCCWN Wexford has taken a range of safety measures to ensure the wellbeing of participants, including strict social distancing, cleaning measures and mandatory mask-wearing.

“We jumped at the opportunity to submit a funding application and within a fortnight, the month-long programme was organised. Women were so keen to sign up that we had to add additional workshops. We were just so delighted to have been granted the funding so we could open up the doors again to women”,

More than fifty women attended workshops throughout December, which included candle making, wreath decorations, Christmas cracker decorating, button craft, watercolours and flower arranging. Access 2000 / NCCWN Wexford also teamed up with Wexford Local Development in delivering workshops at Rosslare Harbour Accommodation Centre (RHAC).

“It has been a tough year for everyone, but more so for residents living in Direct Provision, not knowing what the future in Ireland holds for them. The workshops were an opportunity to bring some smiles, fun and decorations. Management of the Centre and Wexford Local Development (WLD) do an amazing job making the RHAC safe, secure and homely for residents, we were just pleased to offer something different to break up the day.

FEEDBACK FROM WOMEN

The positive feedback from the women who participated in the workshops has been overwhelming.

“We were really taken aback by the positive feedback the workshops received, and we noticed many women mentioned that the experience was relaxing. This really points to the need we all have for a creative outlet, outside the home, where we can come together and learn new skills, share stories and have some time out”,