'Creative courses on my doorstep saved my life'

A teacher who embarked on arts courses after being made redundant during the pandemic said the chance to explore her creative side had "saved her life".

Beverley Mavin, 69, taught English as a foreign language and lost her job with all other staff when the Cambridge Academy of English in Girton went out of business during lockdown.

Finding herself with nothing to do, she tried classes offered by charity Cambridge Community Arts.

"It saved my life - sometimes I need a reason to get out of bed in the morning and it kickstarts me, it gives me structure," she said.

"I hadn't wound down to retiring, it was just overnight and it was a terrible shock," she added.

"I didn't know what to do with myself."

Her daughter picked up a leaflet about a free origami class at a local church, and she has since completed courses in drama and creative writing.

Having not considered herself a creative person, she says she can now reel off a list of art pursuits when her former colleagues ask what she is doing.

"Everyone is amazed, and I am amazed as well because yes, I am now creative," she said.

"I can't speak highly enough of the whole venture."

Cambridge Community Arts aims to improve health and wellbeing with classes at 48 venues across the county.

Many are free, with fees for paid courses waived for those who qualify.

Its new courses include Kick-Start Your Novel, led by Cambridge crime writer Lynn Fraser, painting and embroidery.

"We create safe, welcoming spaces where adults can explore their creativity and build confidence," said Emily Jolley, its chief executive.

"Whether you're a complete beginner or returning to a creative practice, you'll find encouragement, inspiration, and connection."

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