Lisa Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, visits 42nd Street

Lisa Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, visited 42nd Street, a leading young person’s mental health charity in Manchester, to gain insights into their pioneering work with young people and young adults and how they have integrated creativity with mental health support and recovery. The visit included a tour of The Horsfall, the charity’s innovative creative venue, and discussions with both staff and the young people who benefit from their services.

The Horsfall, part of 42nd Street since 2016, is a gallery and space dedicated to creative mental health. It hosts a diverse program of activities centred around art and nature, which are instrumental in promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. With over 40 years of experience, 42nd Street has been at the forefront of supporting young people’s mental health, and their work at The Horsfall exemplifies how the charity co-develops innovative approaches that engage young people beyond more traditional creative approaches with incredible transformative impact

Simone Spray, CEO of 42nd Street, expressed appreciation for the visit, stating, “42nd Street is very excited to share our learning around the impact of creativity on young people’s mental health and wellbeing. We welcome a refreshed approach from the new Labour administration to tackle the complex issues surrounding the huge increases in demand and acuity with a focus on understanding the needs of young people and not looking for traditional or easy fixes.”

During the visit, Lisa Nandy was given an overview of the history and mission of 42nd Street and The Horsfall. She engaged with young people who shared their personal experiences and highlighted the significant role that the charity has played in their mental health journeys. These young individuals spoke about they feel able to use their agency, are listened to and how the charities commitment to democratic approaches allows them to rediscover their self-esteem and confidence and passion for creativity and even consider careers in the arts.

Lisa Nandy emphasised the importance of culture, creativity, sport and youth work in rebuilding communities and restoring dignity. She sought the young people's input on what they wanted her to bring back to the government. Their responses underscored the need for young people to be treated with dignity and respect, for projects to be sustainable and stable rather than short-term, and for a renewed sense of hope in their lives.

Simone Spray further remarked, “Using creativity and youth work with young people isn’t about ‘opening doors and being groovy.’ This work is complex, requires attention and respect, and most importantly, it should put young people at the heart of decisions.”

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “It was great to meet with the extraordinary staff at 42nd Street whose work to bring together creativity and mental health support is transforming the lives of our young people in Manchester. 

 “While talent is spread across every community in our country, opportunities to nurture and develop those skills aren’t. This Government is determined to change that - ensuring every young person has the chance to embrace their creativity and benefit their mental health. 

“42nd Street is a shining example of the positive impact that access to creativity can have on people’s lives."

Lisa Nandy’s visit to 42nd Street and The Horsfall marks a significant recognition of the critical intersection between creativity and mental health, promising potential for future initiatives that place young people’s wellbeing at the forefront of cultural and community development.