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The Habbit Factory

Founded in 2004, The Habbit Factory (THF) is an inclusive arts organisation working with children and young people in the London Borough of Havering. As the only organisation that supports disability arts in the borough and through a targeted network of partners; our work effectively helps people facing higher-than-average levels of exclusion and deprivation.

Our approach is built on the principles of inclusivity, which welcomes everyone; regardless of background, race and/or disability.  In doing so, we welcome some of the most excluded and disadvantaged groups in the UK – children and young people who don’t see themselves as artists and don’t have access to any creative engagement or provision.

We do this because we believe art has the power to effect change. Evidence continues to suggest that the creative arts is one of the most powerful tools to bring people together, breaking down social and cultural barriers, whilst helping the most vulnerable to lead a fulfilling and dignified life.

In 2011, as our work with young people became increasingly recognised and championed, we were approached by several schools to support pupils exhibiting challenging behaviour and struggling to control and regulate their emotions. Our approach was different – a commitment to inclusivity meant bringing everyone together, bridging the divides and challenging stigma to understand and value the person

Through our volunteer programme, supporting 17 adults experiencing exclusion and loneliness, we are further able to provide meaningful connection by giving young people and adults an opportunity to meet others and make new friends. Volunteering at THF not only gives volunteers something to do, but it also gives them a sense purpose and identity.

Who to contact

Contact Name
Lee Giles
Contact Position
Artistic Director & CEO
Telephone
07985377781
E-mail
hello@thehabbitfactory.org
Website
Website
Notes

Members will attend weekly after school termly workshops and classes for 39 weeks of the year, working towards one large-scaled performance made by/with/for Members. Workshops are designed to give Members emotional resilience and our inclusivity methodology places the participant centre - focusing on three development principles: attitude, behaviour, and skill/educational. 

Every member with an additional need is supported 1:1 with an adult ‘buddy’. Our artistic team are highly trained and take the time to get to know each individual member’s abilities and confidence levels, support them throughout workshops and rehearsals so they can enjoy the process gain self-confidence and achieve their best.

During the yearend performances, everyone plays a part. All members are involved in the creative process as we co-create the story. During show week, we take a professional approach which encourages members to take their role seriously. The performance itself challenges stigma amongst the audience as well as giving members a sense of empowerment.

Where to go

Notes

Our workshops are based all over the London Borough of Havering and split into the following age categories:

  • Infants - School years (Reception - Year 2)

  • Juniors - School years (Year 3 - Year 6)

  • Seniors - School Years (Year 7 - Year 13)

  • Adults - 18+

 

Venues + Groups:

 

Monday

St Albans Church, Elm Park. RM12 5JX

Juniors5pm - 6:05pm

Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm

Adults - 8pm - 9:05pm

 

Tuesday

Abbs Cross Academy, Hornchurch, RM12 4YB

Juniors - 5pm - 6:05pm

Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm

 

Wednesday

Myplace Centre, Harold Hill, RM3 9EN

Juniors - 5pm - 6:05pm

Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm

 

Thursday

Rainham Royals Youth Centre, Rainham, RM13 9YG

Juniors - 5pm - 6:05pm

Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm

 

Friday

Salvation Army, Harold Hill, RM3 9NT

Infants - 4pm - 4:45pm

Juniors - 5pm - 6:05pm

Seniors - 6:15pm - 7:20pm

 

 

 

Time / Date Details

When is it on
Monday to Friday
Time of day
Term Time
Afternoon
Evening

Other Details

Costs

Table of costs
Table of costs
AmountCost Type
£15 per month
Details
Payment is simple, all you do is setup a standing order to our account for the first of every month. The month of August is optional as we do not run workshops at this time.

Availability

Referral Details

To register an interest in one of our workshops please complete our online form:

Contact Us | The Habbit Factory

 

Local Offer

Description

Every member with an additional need is supported 1:1 with an adult ‘buddy’. Our artistic team are highly trained and take the time to get to know each individual member’s abilities and confidence levels, support them throughout workshops and rehearsals so they can enjoy the process gain self-confidence and achieve their best

Contact Name
Lee Giles
Contact Telephone
07985377781
Contact Email
hello@thehabbitfactory.org
Links
Website
Local Offer Age Bands
5-11 years
11-16 years
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