Commencing in September 2024, Utopia Theatre’s Inclusive Ageing project offers a creative lifeline for older people from Black, Asian, and other minoritised ethnic backgrounds in Sheffield and surrounding areas. Through arts-based workshops, performances, and community events, the project uses creativity as a tool to enhance emotional wellbeing, combat isolation, and build new skills. Many of our participants are living with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, or dementia, and some are newly arrived asylum seekers, so maintaining the longevity of this project is of significant importance to Utopia.

This next phase of the project will lay the foundations for a longer-term, sustainable Inclusive Ageing programme.

By providing older adults with access to creative workshops, the project will reduce loneliness, improve emotional wellbeing, build confidence and strengthen their communication skills.

Your support will empower older people who are often excluded from mainstream provisions to feel valued, express their creativity, and actively participate in community life. Together, we can create a community where every older person feels seen, heard, and celebrated.

Utopia Theatre’s CEO/Artistic Director, Mojisola Kareem, has expressed the impact of the project and how Utopia is working hard to strengthen the project:

"The Inclusive Ageing Project is a deeply rewarding initiative, valued by all who have taken part. It highlights the urgent need to harness the power of the creative arts to support the health and wellbeing of vulnerable and isolated older people. At Utopia Theatre, it is vital for us to stay connected with our community, ensuring that people of all ages know they have a place here. We are committed to helping everyone find their voice, in whatever way works best for them."