The Pearl Exchange, a charity dedicated to supporting young people in the creative industries, has recently transitioned to a new town centre location in Bude. This move, which took place in July, is expected to enhance the organization's visibility and accessibility for local youth aged 18 to 35. The Pearl Exchange offers a variety of services, including free studio space, workshops, skill-sharing opportunities, and one-to-one counselling, aimed at fostering creativity and addressing mental health issues.
Since its establishment in memory of Pearl Bamford, who passed away in 2019, the Pearl Exchange has made significant strides in fulfilling its mission. Over seven months in 2020, approximately 450 individuals utilized its services. In the previous full year, the number of users reached 478. With the relocation to a more prominent building, managing director Fliss Loxley anticipates an increase in engagement from the community.
Loxley noted that the new location raises the profile of the organization and enhances its ability to reach those in need. She stated, "The issues we face in terms of youth unemployment, mental health and social isolation is not specific to Bude so we'd love to be able to help another area do something like this." This long-term vision includes discussions about a five-year strategy and plans to replicate the charity's model in other regions.
The Pearl Exchange's commitment to mental health support is evident in its one-to-one counselling service. Liam Barber, 27, from Holsworthy, is one of the many young people benefiting from this initiative. He expressed his appreciation for the non-judgmental environment provided by the Pearl Exchange: "There are lots of social groups for kids and older people but as soon as you leave college there's nothing for you." His sentiments highlight the necessity of such support systems for young adults navigating life's challenges.
Dominic Oates, 28, from Tintagel, has also taken advantage of various sessions offered by the Pearl Exchange, including “Arty Fridays.” He has relied on public transport to attend these sessions consistently over recent months. The interactive workshops and community engagement activities not only promote creativity but also combat social isolation among participants.
In addition to enhancing accessibility and user engagement, the Pearl Exchange has successfully raised over £50,000 to renovate its new home. This financial support underscores the community's investment in fostering a nurturing environment for young creatives. The organization continues to prioritize mental health initiatives while providing essential resources for personal and professional development.
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