Essex creative charity Get Started Art has delivered a significant donation of art therapy and wellbeing materials to Colchester Garrison, supporting the welfare of serving personnel and their families across the military community.
The donation was coordinated with the invaluable support of Lt Col Ed Rankin and Bronte Robinson, Welfare Administrator, whose guidance ensured the materials reached the appropriate teams and would directly benefit those most in need.
Designed to encourage creativity, emotional wellbeing, and family connection, the resources include:
Over 1,000 adult and children’s art therapy colouring and activity books
Zones of Regulation materials to support SEN and emotional development
Hundreds of colouring pencil sets, crayons, markers, and paint kits
Sketch pads, mindfulness activities, and specialist arts and crafts kits
Loom bands, rock painting sets, watercolours, and other creative supplies
The items will be distributed by Welfare Officers to support workshops, family sessions, recovery activities, and wider community engagement within the Garrison, particularly benefiting children who are disadvantaged or have learning difficulties or special educational needs.
David Barton, Founder of Get Started Art, commented:
“It’s a real privilege to know these resources will bring colour, creativity, and a sense of calm to military families. Whether it’s a child enjoying quiet time with a parent, or someone taking a mindful moment for themselves, we hope this donation brings smiles, inspires imagination, and supports emotional wellbeing.”
Charity Director Martin Chapman added:
“We’re incredibly proud to support the men and women of the British Armed Forces. It’s our privilege to stand alongside those who serve, and the families who support them.”
Get Started Art, formed in Thurrock less than three years ago, has grown from a grassroots creative initiative into a charity with both national and international outreach. The organisation delivers free art therapy, mindfulness, and creative resources to young people, families, and vulnerable communities across the UK and beyond.
