History

Feltham Arts Association is a registered Charity whose management committee all live in the West Area of the London Borough of Houslow. There are three members of staff a Programme Manager, Programme Development Manager and an Arts Development Worker.  The Association was set up in 1987 as a result of the London Borough of Hounslow’s commitment to community education and to put the organisation of cultural events for the Feltham area in the hands of the community.  Between 1997 and 2002 the organisation developed rapidly as a result of being a service project for the Feltham First SRB Partnership.  From April 2002-2005, the Big Lottery Community Fund was the main funding source. the Community Fund enabled Feltham Arts to develop a very successful programme of activities to increase self esteem, confidence and capacity of the inhabitants of Feltham, Hanworth and Bedfont. FAA expanded with additional permanent staff which helped the organisation to successfully put its strategic plan and projects in place. New projects were developed with the organisation becoming an approved TRAC OCN centre enabling us to deliver accredited courses, targeting disadvantaged young people and to work intensively with one Estate or voluntary organisation per year to plan and facilitate community activities and fundraising.  In co-operation with statutory and voluntary agencies this project  assisted approximately 4,000-6,000 people a year to access training and build personal and community capacity. Over the past five years London Borough of Hounslow Community Investment Fund and Corporate Grant along with income generated from services has enabled us to sustain the organisation’s development project work. 

Our Aims

The main aims of the organisation are to improve the confidence, self-esteem and skills of individuals of all ages through their participation in educational leisure projects. Capacity building and management skills in smaller voluntary organisations, to enhance community cohesion and reduce racial tension through shared aims and cultural events.  To provide training with OCN and AQA accreditation for disadvantaged young people in video skills, music technology, Djing, street dance, fashion and photography through the Media and Performance Programme.  The annual programme is achieved because of the commitment not only by the paid staff and sessional workers but also the many people who give their time voluntarily.  These include the Directors and advisory committee, Friends of Feltham Arts, community organisations, church groups, local performing groups, youth organisations, women’s groups and ethnic minority groups.  People from these organisations provide venues and help us facilitate projects.  Staff at the local libraries play a significant part in promoting the work of the association as do many of the local schools.