Borderline Arts, based in Derby City, were awarded £1,000 back in 2014 to support this fledgling group.
Borderline use the arts to tackle mental health stigma and help those with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
Receiving this grant has made a massive difference to us and has hugely helped our growth. The artists involved (who all have Borderline Personality Disorder) feel heard, validated and empowered as well as providing social interaction and a creative outlet – reducing isolation and increasing their sense of self-worth.
Almost 100% of those who attended our art exhibition stated that they now have a better understanding of what it is like to live with BPD. Those who previously had a negative attitude toward those with the condition said that they now had a more positive attitude.
We had feedback from loved ones of those with BPD and from healthcare professionals who support those with BPD. The response was incredibly positive; many stated that they now better understood the condition and would be able to help their loved one/client/patient much more effectively as a result.
Doing this project led to two newspaper articles and two radio interviews – each raising further awareness across Derbyshire. We had fantastic feedback from strangers and it’s great to know that we are reaching further afield than just those who are attending events.
Every penny we get really does make a difference! As a small local group (not part of a national ‘chain’) we are completely self-sufficient. We make every pound count and the results we receive have been amazing – we really are meeting our aims even on a tiny budget!
