Did you know that Manchester Art Gallery is one of the first places that brand new Mancunians get to visit?
We work with Sure Start, the Manchester Health Visiting Team, MMU Children’s & Childhood Research Group and local nurseries to give new babies their first creative experiences
In May 2020 we were due to open a brand new gallery for families, a colourful and exciting place where new parents can meet with each other and local Health Visitors at Baby Stay & Play sessions. Providing health clinic services in the gallery and combining them with creative and sensory experiences is having a real impact, improving the outcomes and life chances of children and families across the city.
Although opening of the new gallery has been delayed, this work has continued via zoom. During the pandemic new parents and babies have needed even more support, at a time when everyone has need lots more support and reassurance. A lack of early intervention and face to face interaction can lead to isolation and an increased risk of post-natal depression. Many babies born during lockdown have yet to see another baby.
During the first lockdown we sent out 100 sensory baby boxes to families. They were so successful that Manchester City Council Children’s Services commissioned us to make 3000 sensory baby bags which were distributed via 30 local Surstart centres. You can read more about this here
This is just one of the many projects the gallery runs for Manchester’s residents. It’s work that often goes unnoticed by the majority of our visitors but it has a huge impact on participants. It’s the kind of work we would be unable to do without external funds and you’ve just become a part of it with your donation.
Thanks!
