Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

A great value-for-money scheme for community groups.
When I held 'the arts' portfolio at WWDC I was pleased to see this scheme introduced; I'm happy that it is continuing.

The authority is part of the Participatory Arts Workshops Scheme (PAWS), which allows organisations such as youth groups, senior citizens’ clubs, homelessness schemes, disability groups, holiday schemes and play groups, family clubs and day centres to apply for an arts project, spread over two to four sessions.

The only criteria are that they have at least ten people who want to take part and access to a suitable venue. There may be additional costs for materials or equipment.

Among the arts on offer in West Wiltshire over the next six months are:

Dance, rhythm and body percussion

Wild and wonderful weaving

Carnival creatures

Painting on glass

Mosaic making

Moving words

Konnakol vocal percussion

Imaginary world - shadow play

DramaXperience

Banner making

Bookworms Delight

Creative panels

Applications to the new scheme, which is running until September, can now be made, with groups asked to state which arts project they want, who will benefit, where it will take place and preferred dates.

Councillor Chris March, the District Council’s community portfolio holder, said: “In the six years that PAWS has been running, we have seen hundreds of people of all ages across West Wiltshire enjoying arts activities in their own community.

“The main aim of the scheme is to encourage everyone to try something new, and the programme offers a wide range of workshops. The sessions are very popular, so I would urge anyone interested in booking to get in touch as soon as possible.”

To find out more, contact community development officer Meril Morgan on 01225 776655 x235, or e-mail mmorgan@westwiltshire.gov.uk