Upcoming Events
Cant see anything you fancy? More events are always being planned. Check back regularly to see the latest updates and events, or subscribe to our newsletter for monthly updates and early access. NewsletterEvery Friday afternoon, Friendship Friday brings together autistic adults and adults with learning disabilities from across County Durham for a relaxed, welcoming session at The COSE in Bishop Auckland. It’s a space to make friends, build confidence, and stay active—through creativity, movement, and shared experiences.
On the first Friday of each month, Art Adapts UK joins the group to lead a gentle, sensory-rich craft workshop. Each session features a different accessible activity—from clay and origami, to woven stars and seasonal makes—designed to support self-expression and emotional wellbeing. All materials are provided, and adaptations are made to suit individual needs and preferences.
👐 What to expect:
• A new craft each month, tailored for diverse abilities
• A calm, inclusive atmosphere with support throughout
• Opportunities to explore creativity, meet others, and boost wellbeing
• Other weekly activities are run by Bridge Creative, for more information contact them directly using the details below
📍 Where & When:
We meet every Friday from 3:30pm to 5:00pm at: The COSE, 1 Dorset Place, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, DL14 6TH
📱 Interested in joining?
If you’re an autistic adult or an adult with a learning disability living in County Durham, you’re warmly invited to come along. For more information, contact Bridge Creative:
📞 01388 449410
📧 [email protected]
Friendship Friday is more than just a group—it’s a community built on creativity, care, and connection. Come as you are, and leave with something handmade and heartfelt.
F.A.Q.
Who can attend your workshops?
Our inclusive workshops welcome adults with all types of disabilities, plus their support networks. We adapt every session to accommodate diverse needs and abilities.
Where are your sessions held?
Workshops occur in accessible community centres, care facilities, and pop-up locations across County Durham. Each venue meets strict accessibility standards for comfort.
Can organizations book private sessions?
Absolutely. We design bespoke programs for schools, care homes, and businesses, aligning creative activities with therapeutic goals or team-building objectives.
Are your materials safe and accessible?
Yes. We use sensory-friendly, non-toxic, and easy-to-handle materials that are safe, fun, and accessible for all participants involved.
How can I support Art Adapts UK?
Financial donations, material contributions, and corporate sponsorships help us expand. Sharing our work on social media also makes a big difference.
What types of activities do you offer?
We specialize in sensory-rich, adaptable crafts including textured painting, easy-grip clay modelling, papercrafts and more – all customizable to different skill levels.
How do you ensure accessibility?
Our venues feature wheelchair access, adjustable tools & equipment, and sensory-friendly lighting. We consult participants beforehand to understand and prepare for specific requirements.
How do you support emotional wellbeing?
Through achievement-focused projects and positive reinforcement, we create a judgment-free space where creativity becomes a tool for confidence and stress relief. We are also trained Mental Health First Aiders to be able to support anyone experiencing mental ill-health, and can signpost and refer onto other services.
Do you offer multi-week programmes?
Yes. We run structured creative wellbeing programmes that span several weeks, supporting emotional development, connection, and ongoing personal growth.
Are your sessions suitable for children?
Not yet, but it is something we are looking into! We are happy to give advice to any staff member about how to make sessions accessible for various disabilities, just drop us a message.
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