Charity calls for master crafters to help raise funds

Mental health charity Mind is calling on the nation's master crafters to inspire the general public to try their hand at making something this Christmas. Crafternoon, a festive mass-fundraising event takes place on 1st December, and the charity is encouraging people to host a creative afternoon with friends, family and colleagues.

Hosts will receive tips and templates from Mind's fundraising team. More than 650 hosts have taken part since the event began, and the organisers are hoping that even more people will get involved if master crafters are on hand to share their own creative tips and ideas.

“We're making it easy for those who are new to crafting to host an event by providing simple guides and templates,” explains Karen Bolton, Head of Community and Events Fundraising at Mind. “However, if we are able to engage experienced crafters to host their own Crafternoon, or even just share some simple Christmas craft ideas on social media with us, we believe that we can inspire even more people to take part and learn new skills. It's a great way for people to spend time together away from the hustle and bustle of Christmas, while doing something creative and ticking a few things off your festive to-do list. We've seen people making Christmas cards, decorations, gift wrap and stocking fillers. Hosts provide the materials and the venue – which is often the kitchen table or a local café – and guests offer a small donation for the creations they take away with them. Every penny raised will make a huge difference to the one in four of us who experience mental health problems. Just £50 could answer six calls to the Mind Infoline which provides vital support when it is needed most.”

To sign up as a host and share your skills with friends or colleagues, go to www.mind.org.uk/crafternoon