Sunderland professionals have unleashed their creative talents, as part of an event to help people de-stress after work.
Businesspeople working at Riverside Sunderland took part in a ‘paint and sip’ event, delivered in partnership with The Art Room, to create their own masterpiece and shut off from the stresses and strains of a day in the office.
The event – part of a programme of activities organised by Knight Frank, who manage The Beam and City Hall – is designed to support businesses in the centres to support their teams’ wellbeing and happiness.
Held in City Hall, the event saw art teacher Kerry Cook guide attendees to deliver their best work, and they even got to take their artwork home as a memento of the evening.
Laura Kerry, an Occupier Experience Manager at Knight Frank, said: “Finding an emotional release like painting allows a person’s mind to relax and let go of all the problems that contribute to a high stress level and we know that – by helping their team to switch off and enjoy a good work-life balance – businesses benefit from more motivated people.
“We are keen to create a strong sense of community among the businesses that call Riverside Sunderland home, and – in organising events like this – we bring people together and support collaboration in a way that helps individuals and businesses to connect with others and grow.”
Part of Riverside Sunderland’s spring staff activities programme, which is focused around mental health awareness, Sip and Paint is one of a number of events to help people switch off after work.
Other events have included a Yoga class in April in partnership with HotPod Yoga Sunderland and the centre has also supported with events and workshops to support people with personal money management and financial planning.
Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “Sunderland people are known for being highly motivated, committed people, but inevitably the stress and strain of work can impact on how people feel.
“These events are a great way of ensuring that businesses at Riverside Sunderland have access to events and activities that support the wellbeing of their people and the feedback has been fantastic.”