Doncaster Mind secured a £1,000 donation from the Persimmon Homes Community Champions scheme to support its brand-new creative classes.

The charity produces a range of services to support more than 1,000 individuals, in the region, who have or are vulnerable to mental health concerns. 

Linda Woods from Doncaster Mind said: “Our work focuses on positive wellbeing rather than the illness.

“Art therapy is an effective and alternative way to express and communicate feelings, which is a valuable as part of the healing process.

“Persimmon Homes’ donation will enable us to fund an art therapist for a year – we are very grateful.”

The Doncaster Mind art-making sessions will include painting, drawing, clay modelling, collage arrangements and paper creations.

Persimmon Homes South Yorkshire makes two donations of up to £1,000 every month to grassroots groups and charities across the region.

Richard Hosie, managing director of Persimmon Homes South Yorkshire, said: “Community Champions has allowed us to support dozens of good causes and we continue to encourage other such groups to apply – as next month they could be the fortunate beneficiaries.”

In addition to the Persimmon Homes’ Community Champions scheme, the housebuilder has launched its Building Futures initiative which supports groups working with under-18s. The scheme will make grants to projects across education & arts, health and sport, with the potential of a £100,000 prize giveaway.

Applications for the Persimmon Homes Community Champions or Building Futures schemes can be made at www.persimmonhomes.com/charity