An art exhibition showing art created by children and young people who use local mental health services has been praised by Fatima Whitbread MBE, former Javelin World Champion and Olympic medallist.
Fatima attended the opening of the “Know Yourself, Grow Yourself” exhibition at The Horton Arts Centre yesterday, showcasing art by the children and young people from Mindworks Surrey’s STARS and New Leaf services.
The exhibition is open to the public from 2-11 July at The Horton Arts Centre, Epsom. It is free to enter and showcases artwork by both young people and their parents/carers and staff.
The STARS and New Leaf services are part of Mindworks Surrey, the local NHS provider of emotional wellbeing and mental health services for young people. STARS supports children and young people who have been affected by sexual abuse and assault. New Leaf service supports children and young people who are in care, leaving care, adopted or under special guardianship orders.
The children and young people and their carers who use STARS and New Leaf were invited to create art relating to the theme of ‘Know Yourself, Grow Yourself’. This is linked to Children’s Mental Health Week earlier this year, which had the same theme.
Fatima has talked openly about being abandoned as a baby and spending the first 14 years of her life in children’s homes. She is the founder of Fatima's UK Campaign to improve the care system for young people and ensure they are 'seen, heard and valued’.
Speaking at the exhibition, she said: “I think it is just wonderful that these young people have been given this opportunity to express themselves through art and music.
“Children growing up in care can feel traumatised. Participating in sport, art, music are all ways in which you can immerse yourself in the moment. They also give you a sense of belonging and help you to develop important life skills.”
Emina Atic-Lee, Service Manager for STARS and New Leaf services, said: “We’re very proud to be showcasing the art exhibition for its third year. It provides a wealth of valuable insight into what really matters to the children and young people who use both our services and how they use their creativity to express their self-awareness thoughts and emotions”.
The Know Yourself, Grow Yourself Art Exhibition is open from 9:15am-4.15pm, 2-11 July 2025.
The address is: Horton Arts Centre, The Horton, Haven Way Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8NP. Sat Nav: Haven Way, KT19 7HA.
You can read more about the art exhibition on The Horton website.
You can read more information about the STARS and New Leaf services on the MindWorks Surrey website.