Thanks to the generous support of £40,000 in funding from Avanti West Coast, this initiative promises to illuminate the lives of those in need throughout South Lanarkshire.
The ‘Hope in Hamilton’ project has been a collaborative effort designed to unite individuals supported with their mental health and wellbeing, empowering them to create an interactive art piece for Hamilton station. Through this endeavour, voices of hope will echo throughout the station, offering solace and encouragement to those facing personal struggles.
Building upon the foundational work of Rail 74 CRP, a charity dedicated to enhancing community welfare and reducing the effects of poverty along the Rutherglen to Motherwell line, ‘Hope in Hamilton’ represents a pioneering effort to address mental health challenges. Partnering with Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, Samaritans and Cross-country. Rail 74 CRP aims to elevate mental wellbeing and more key challenges within the community through innovative projects.
Over the course of the project, Rail74 CRP with the help of Artist, Rob Mulholland, facilitated a series of workshops engaging members of the community, including patients from NHS Beckford Lodge. These workshops, coupled with an open community and passenger consultation, provided invaluable insight and inspiration for the design of the art installation.
Translating the messages and mantras throughout the project received invaluable support and guidance from Samaritans, who have played a crucial role in acknowledging the profound impact of suicides on everyone’s lives.
In a groundbreaking initiative aligned with the ethos of sustainability, Alstom, the train leasing company, generously contributed a used carriage side for the display of the artwork. This recycled canvas serves as a testament to the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility, echoing the themes that we all must do more to support climate responsibilities.
Renowned artist Rob Mulholland, of Arcadia Sculpture Centre, has been commissioned to translate the collective vision of participants into a captivating artwork. His expertise and passion for mental wellbeing will ensure that the installation resonates deeply with the community -’ I have been delighted to be part of such an interesting project that focuses on mental wellbeing and look forward to seeing the various groups and individuals ideas into a contemporary artwork being enjoyed by the community and visitors to Hamilton’
Expressing her enthusiasm for the project, Suzie McCheyne, Development Support at Rail 74 CRP, stated, “We are proud to spearhead an initiative that promotes mental wellbeing and fosters a sense of belonging within the community. Through collaboration and creativity, we strive to instil hope and pride in the hearts of all who pass through Hamilton Central Station.”
Joanna Buckley, Community Manager at Avanti West Coast, emphasized the importance of community engagement and mental health awareness, stating, “We are honoured to support this initiative, which serves as a beacon of hope for the people of Hamilton. By promoting mental wellbeing and connectivity, we can navigate the challenges posed by the cost of living crisis and together, emerging stronger and more resilient.”
‘Hope in Hamilton’ is not merely an art project but a testament to the power of community, resilience, and hope. As the installation takes shape at Hamilton Central Station, it serves as a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, there is always light and hope to guide us forward.
Whatever you’re facing, Samaritans volunteers are always available to listen, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, free of charge, on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
Hamilton station becomes platform for transformed train carriage promoting positive mental health.
Train operators support art project to champion mental health in South Lanarkshire ‘Hope in Hamilton’ created by people being supported with their mental wellbeing. Interactive art piece at Hamilton Central station aims to bring hope to community. A train carriage which has been transformed into an interactive art installation has been unveiled at Hamilton Central station as part of a community project to champion positive mental health.
Located on platform 1, the large-scale artwork titled ‘Hope in Hamilton’ features visual and audio messages collected from members of the community to provide voices from people in the local area. It is designed to raise awareness and understanding of mental health
The unique art piece is the result of a project by Rail 74 CRP (Community Rail Partnership) – a charity that aims to deliver benefits along the Rutherglen to Hamilton Central Line.
For more info contact:
Laura Normansell Regional Communications Manager
Avanti West Coast,
North Wing Offices,
Euston Station,
London NW1 2HS
m: 07876 813975