A CEREDIGION theatre company have launched new workshops as part of their project supporting mental well-being in west Wales.

Amethyst, a Small World Theatre project, are running “workshops for young people who have experienced issues around self-harm, anxiety, depression, low confidence and low self-esteem”.

The project also works with young people more broadly around emotional well-being.

A free therapeutic art course, containing six zoom sessions, starts this Thursday (4 November). The 14 to 16 year session takes place from 10.30am to 12pm and the 17 to 25 year session from 2pm to 3.30pm, every Thursday.

A Small World Theatre spokesperson said: “Working with art and therapeutic practices, Amethyst offers the chance to be creative as well as to talk.

“We are inviting young adults who have been struggling with their well-being, to join a new programme of 6 arts-based workshops to explore art techniques and improve resilience and well-being. You don’t have to be a brilliant artist and we’ll supply the materials.”

Additionally, Amethyst works with a group of parents and guardians of young people who are struggling with their mental health. The Parent Support Group meets online on Tuesdays, from 1pm to 2.30pm.

The spokesperson said: “New parents are always welcome and we can arrange a one-to-one Zoom before the regular session to explain how we work.

“This autumn we have invited speakers on specialist topics. Please join us.

“On 16 November, Therapeutic Arts facilitator Josie will be giving us an overview of the nervous system and emotional regulation. Sessions are free and open to all.”

The spokesperson added: “Amethyst prioritises creating a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space. We model kindness, empathy, honesty and integrity.

“Using techniques from ‘Theatre of the Oppressed’ such as forum theatre and image theatre, elements of Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Neuroscience, games and exercises, we promote well-being and improve mental health.

“We work from the onset with each group to negotiate a clear, ongoing contract involving all members.”

Small World Theatre creates “unique, flexible” theatre performances with puppetry that tour to small and mid scale venues.

They “consider the impact on the environment when making new work and plan low-impact tours across the UK”, appearing in street shows, venues, and festivals.

The theatre is home to many projects and programme events, with a focus on arts and sustainability, health and well-being, such as the Amethyst Project.

They also run an aerial circus and physical theatre training school, Syrcas Byd Bychan, working with professional freelancers.

For more information or to book your free place on either of the Amethyst Project courses, you can contact Deri on [email protected].