A MENTAL health charity will be able to carry on supporting vulnerable people through the coronavirus pandemic using funding from a housing association.

Durham-based RT Projects has received £10,000 from believe housing to allow it to continue providing arts-based mental health support.

The charity is normally based in a converted bungalow in Gilesgate where it delivers activities like printmaking, sculpture, woodcarving, creative writing and textiles.

But with face-to-face art sessions impossible, the charity was concerned that many of its vulnerable regulars would be left with no interaction when they needed it most.

The funding will help RT Projects to create digital opportunities to tackle the effects of social isolation while physical activities are not an option.

Emma Beattie, from RT Projects, said: “At ‘The Open Art Surgery’, our little artist’s studio in Gilesgate Durham, we offer care and support as well as art activities, which we believe are the main ingredients for recovery.

“We really value our partnership with believe housing. With their support we are able to continue our life saving work.”

An online forum has been set up and packs of arts and crafts equipment have also been sent out.

Online sessions will be delivered to provide the support normally provided face-to-face.

The funding will also ensure that RT Projects’ traditional base will be able to reopen as soon as the coronavirus pandemic has subsided.

Debbie Howe, from believe housing. said: “RT Projects do make a huge difference to dozens of people every year who really need the unique support offered. The coronavirus pandemic certainly hasn’t reduced that need, so we were very keen to provide funding to ensure the good work can continue; albeit digitally. We’ve created new funding streams and targeted other resources at providing extra resources for communities during the coronavirus pandemic.”

Applications for grants of up to £500 are still open to community groups, organisations or schools that work in areas covered by believe housing.

To find out more call 0300-1311-999.