A community hub has launched a programme of events covering mental health and wellbeing.

And volunteers at Swindon Hub in The Parade plan to get local artists, charities and community groups involved in the next stage of their three-month programme.

One of the volunteers organising the latest Exploring Art as Therapy project is Josie Slade.

She said: “We want the hub to be a place where people can talk about things that really matter to them.

“Mental health and wellbeing have never been more important - and we have lots of people visiting the hub who have something really important to say about that.”

There’s already a graffiti display to see, specially created by local artist Keith Bull or Inca the mole.

He uses his work to link his own mental health experiences with his views on the environment, modern life, lockdowns and Christmas.

He explained: “Lockdown really made me think about how I could use art.

“I decided to create a cartoon character called Mole who could travel with me online and express how I was feeling.

“I’ve been helped a huge amount by local charities like Ipsum and Twigs community gardens - it’s a big comfort to know they are there for you, and I really recommend anyone who needs to talk to get in touch with them.”

Ipsum is a charity which helps people through counselling and therapeutic creative music and art. It is one of several local organisations supporting Swindon Hub’s project with art workshops, displays and exhibitions.

Project manager Barbara Lorusso said: “We’re delighted to have such a central location in Swindon where we can share all that we know about how art and music can help people with their mental health. Working with the hub is a great opportunity to show what we can do to help.”

Keith’s graffiti show will run until January 15 followed by more displays and an exhibition of art created by hub visitors at workshops.

To find out more, email events@swindonhub.org.uk