FREE online art sessions are available for people in Gloucestershire who are moving on from cancer.

Anyone who is recovering from cancer treatment is eligible for a free 10-week online art course, delivered by arts and health specialist charity, Artlift.

Participants will be guided by a trained artist as they explore making, drawing, and painting with others in the same boat.

No skill or talent in art is needed – the sessions offer the opportunity to share experiences, make new friends, focus on something positive and process experiences.

In the words of a previous participant: "I have been really enjoying it, a lot more than I thought I would. I zone out for two hours and come downstairs calmer and smiling after the Zoom sessions."

Artist Susie Walker, who leads the course, said: "People often come to Artlift with low confidence because of life-changing health issues.

"As artists, we are not therapists - we just create a supportive space where we show them that we all have creativity to tap into, whatever our experiences and expectations.

"We see how simple creative tasks build confidence and skills as we share ideas and discover new techniques.

"After working with people, it is so exciting to hear that they are drawing, painting, or making every day. Some are even selling work, heading to art college, or running their own classes. I am really inspired by the change that creativity can bring to our lives.’

Cath Wilkins, CEO of Artlift, said: "Arts on prescription is a highly innovative solution to support wellbeing and mental health.

"We have been working with the University of Gloucestershire to demonstrate the very real difference this can make.

"Statistics show that by the end of a course, the wellbeing of participants is vastly improved."

Choose between two courses starting on either Monday 16 November (2-4pm) or Thursday 19 November (10.30am-12.30pm) - delivered as Zoom sessions.

Anyone who thinks this course could help them needs to talk to their doctor, cancer or healthcare professional, or a Macmillan contact for a referral, or contact 03000 200102 or referrals@artlift.org.

For further information, visit www.artlift.org.