Business Details
21 Years
experience
Creative Arts for Mental Health & Wellbeing in Huddersfield
Established in 2005, hoot creative arts has dedicated two decades to enhancing mental health and emotional wellbeing through creative expression. As an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, we collaborate with Kirklees Council and the NHS Integrated Care Board to deliver transformative creative programmes across Kirklees. Our team of experienced professionals specialises in designing inclusive activities that cater to diverse groups, including adults with mental health challenges, individuals living with dementia, and those in supported residential settings. Rooted in the belief that creativity is fundamental to human connection, we prioritise accessibility and equity in all our initiatives.Our work has been recognised with awards such as the Kirklees Volunteer Quality Award and Quality 4 Health + Wellbeing Level 2 status. By bridging arts and health, we empower individuals to develop self-care techniques and foster community bonds. Our commitment to continuous improvement drives us to challenge biases and innovate in participatory arts, ensuring our services remain relevant and impactful in addressing contemporary wellbeing needs.
Services
Visual Arts
Music Making
Creative Writing
Digital Music
Creation Station
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- 20 years of specialist experience in arts-based mental health interventions
- Commissioned by NHS and Kirklees Council for proven community impact
- Offers tailored creative activities for dementia, autism, and mental health
- Award-winning inclusive programme design and delivery
- Pioneers in digital creative platforms for remote participation
Associations and certifications
- Arts Council England
What people say
Award-winning inclusivity
Therapeutic benefits
Community connection
Accessible sessions
Supportive environment
Services
Visual Arts
Painting, drawing, textiles, and clay sessions foster self-expression and mental wellbeing. Participants develop technical skills while exploring emotional themes through tactile mediums. Our studios in Huddersfield and Dewsbury provide safe spaces for creative exploration.
Music Making
Group jamming, songwriting, and improvisation sessions enhance social connection and emotional release. Both Huddersfield and Dewsbury locations offer instrument access and expert guidance for all skill levels.
Creative Writing
Poetry, short story, and journaling sessions help articulate thoughts through structured creative expression. Weekly classes focus on building confidence and narrative skills in a supportive group setting.
Digital Music
Computer-based music production using professional software in our digital studio. Participants learn sound design and composition techniques to create original works independently.
Creation Station
Tailored creative sessions for adults with learning disabilities and autism. Morning and afternoon groups in Huddersfield provide sensory materials and adaptive techniques for accessible artistic engagement.
People
Gavin Clayton
CEO
Leading hoot creative arts since its inception, Gavin champions arts integration in healthcare. With 20 years' experience in community mental health initiatives, he drives strategic partnerships with NHS and local authorities.
Kath Shackleton
Project Manager
Managing the Out of the Blue service, Kath combines clinical expertise with creative programming. She specialises in designing trauma-informed art activities for vulnerable adults across Kirklees.
Sally Barker
Visual Arts Coordinator
Sally leads visual arts workshops with a focus on therapeutic techniques. Her background in fine arts education informs adaptive teaching methods for diverse participant needs.
Rob Crisp
Music Specialist
Rob facilitates music sessions blending improvisation and structured composition. He develops accessible curricula for participants with varying cognitive and physical abilities.
Peter Lyster
Chair of the Board
Overseeing governance, Peter brings strategic leadership to hoot's arts-health initiatives. His board guidance ensures organisational alignment with national wellbeing policy frameworks.
Questions
What creative activities do you offer for mental health support?
We provide visual arts, music making, creative writing, digital music production, and tailored sessions for adults with learning disabilities across Kirklees locations.
Are your creative workshops free to attend?
All our core creative activities and mental health programmes are provided free of charge to participants through commissioned funding arrangements.
How can I join your creative sessions?
Contact us via phone or email to arrange a welcome session. No prior experience is needed - just bring your enthusiasm for creative exploration.
Do you offer online creative activities?
Yes, we provide digital music workshops and singing sessions online, alongside our in-person programmes at Bates Mill and community venues.
What areas do you serve besides Huddersfield?
Our services extend to Dewsbury, Ravensthorpe, and other Kirklees communities through outreach sessions and partnerships with local facilities.
How does creative activity improve mental wellbeing?
Creative expression reduces stress, builds social connections, and develops coping skills. Our evidence-based programmes demonstrate measurable improvements in emotional resilience and self-esteem.
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