A NEWLY-FORMED arts initiative has received a huge boost with £20,000 Lottery grant.

The Nurturing Arts Hub CIC in Newton Abbot has been awarded the cash from the The National Lottery Community Fund to support its work providing accessible arts opportunities.

Founding director Laura Slater explained: ‘The funding will allow us to develop inclusive creative programmes designed to support wellbeing, connection and confidence through the arts.

‘Our aim is to create a welcoming space where people of all ages and abilities can explore creativity, build community, and experience the positive impact of the arts.’

Laura started the organisation after years moving about as a military wife and struggling to fit into new communities.

During one of the last postings abroad, she was encouraged by a local artist to join creative groups.

Laura said: ‘She helped me realise that I could pursue art professionally, something I had never truly believed was possible.

‘Before this, I worked as a nurse for 17 years and had always been passionate about helping people.

‘Through art I discovered a new way to continue supporting others.

‘Sitting down to create alongside other people gave me purpose, improved my wellbeing and helped me feel connected again.

‘That experience stayed with me and became the inspiration for something I have long dreamed of bringing to a community of my own.’

With her family permanently based in Newton Abbot, Laura has partnered with fellow director and artist Natalie Naumann who shares her passion for making art and creativity accessible to everyone.

Laura added: ‘Together we want to create welcoming opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the benefits of creativity.

‘For us, this project is about more than art. It is about connection, confidence and creating a place where no one has to feel alone.

‘Thanks to this funding, all of our current classes will be offered free of charge to the community.’

Sessions begin in May and will include a Saturday morning children’s class, a Thursday group for people aged 60 and over and military veterans, and an after-school class for ages 11 and above.

While they work towards securing further funding and a permanent base, classes will take place at The Little Art Shed Studio at Burnham Nurseries.

Places will be limited and advance booking will be essential.

Laura said: ‘Our vision is simple — art should be accessible to everyone.

‘We want to create a space where people can come together, learn new skills, build confidence and support their wellbeing through creativity.

‘Our long-term goal is to open a permanent high street arts lounge with craft materials always available.

‘We want this space to be SEND-friendly, recognising how overwhelming busy environments can be for some children and young people.

‘Creating a calm, inclusive and nurturing atmosphere will be central to what we do.

‘We also hope the hub will provide studio and exhibition space for local artists, giving them a visible presence in the town centre while helping make art more affordable and part of everyday community life.’

Alongside the National Lottery award, they have also applied for additional grants to help expand and secure a long-term home for the hub.