MancSpirit is unashamedly Mancunian in Design and Delivery. We see being Mancunian as an attitude, not a birth-right, and we value those people and organisations that share our Vision of caring for others, helping those that help others, getting stuck in and getting things done – but doing things the right way, by working with others and respecting their individuality.

The exhibition and event we held in Manchester Central Library and at Wigan Life Centre, supporting staff, patients that had recovered from being intubated and the loved ones of those who passed away during the pandemic was incredible and far surpassed the outcomes we envisioned to give Our amazing NHS heroes an opportunity to show the love, commitment and determination behind the masks when the pandemic first hit!

The online sessions, delivered throughout the first year of the pandemic and several lockdowns, gave them access to fun, creativity, respite and the opportunity to connect with other young carers in their area. We provided a mix of art, crafts, music, comedy, improvisation and some really special guests from Children’s TV and pop music. The laughter and energy was intoxicating and the feedback from their families that they had transmitted that from the sessions and into their homes was heartwarming!

They decided collectively to highlight toxic behaviour in the creative industries, such as bullying and body image which can have a devastating effect on mental wellbeing. They also told us that their personal safety outside of college was a huge concern to them, especially for the young women, alongside the assumptions made about them as young people from different cultures across older ager groups.