Thurrock Charity Founder Honoured with Prestigious British Citizen Award
An Essex resident has been formally recognised at the Palace of Westminster for his outstanding work using creativity to enhance mental health, promote inclusion, and support wellbeing both within the United Kingdom and on an international scale. David Barton, the founder of the charity Get Started Art, was presented with a British Citizen Award for Services to the Arts during a special ceremony held on January 25th.
The People's Honours Celebrating Exceptional Contribution
These national awards, often referred to as The People's Honours, specifically honour individuals who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to society through voluntary service and civic dedication. The ceremony celebrates those whose efforts might otherwise go unnoticed, highlighting the profound impact of grassroots community work.
David Barton, who resides in Thurrock, established Get Started Art in 2022 with a clear mission: to address significant gaps in access to creative wellbeing support for individuals facing mental health challenges, trauma, or social isolation. The charity operates on the principle that creative expression should be accessible to all.
Transforming Lives Through Creative Resources
Since its inception, Get Started Art has achieved remarkable reach, distributing over 1.5 million creative resources to schools, care homes, hospitals, and community organisations. These resources, which include specialised art therapy books and engaging activity packs, have been delivered not only across Essex and the wider UK but also to international partners.
The charity's core focus remains firmly on accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that creative participation is possible for everyone, regardless of their age, ability, or personal background. Consequently, these materials are now widely utilised by diverse groups, including:
- Children with additional educational or physical needs
- Residents in care homes seeking meaningful engagement
- Individuals living in refuge or temporary accommodation
- People recovering from illness, injury, or emotional distress
A Humble Recognition of Collective Effort
Upon receiving the award, David Barton expressed profound humility, stating that the honour truly belongs to the communities and volunteers who share the belief in creativity's power. "I have simply been fortunate enough to work alongside people who care deeply about improving the lives of others," he remarked.
He further elaborated on the unique role of creativity, noting, "Creativity has an extraordinary way of reaching people when words cannot. If this recognition helps shine a light on the many individuals and organisations who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support wellbeing, inclusion, and dignity through simple acts of kindness, then it has truly served its purpose."
A Ceremony of Distinction
The British Citizen Award presentation was a distinguished event, hosted by renowned broadcaster Konnie Huq. The ceremony was attended by esteemed award patrons, including Dame Mary Perkins DBE and The Right Honourable The Lord Mott OBE, underscoring the significance of the recognition. Following the formal proceedings, all award recipients took part in a ceremonial procession through central London, celebrating their achievements in the public eye.
This award not only highlights David Barton's personal dedication but also brings vital attention to the critical intersection of arts, mental health support, and community welfare, demonstrating how local initiatives can foster national and international positive change.
