Self Directed Support Scotland (SDSS) Membership

We are very proud to announce that Gaada has been confirmed as an associate member of Self Directed Support Scotland. This means that we provide support for those accessing and making use of social care in our local area. As an SDSS member we are part of a network of independent Support Organisations from across Scotland who champion Independent Living and best practice in the provision of social care.

Gaada works with some of Shetland’s most creative minds, to produce beautiful and thought provoking outcomes. SDS offers a stable route for neurologically diverse artists to access one-to-one creative support over a longterm period through Gaada’s Artist Development Sessions. In these weekly workshops, budding artists work with experienced tutors to develop the ambition and quality of their making in a supportive and well-equipped creative workshop.

Our person-centred approach means that we always focus on strengthening the individuals interests and abilities, so everyone who attends Artist Development Sessions have a different creative outcome. Some of our artists learn how to draw and colour digitally; some work on paper through drawing, painting, printmaking and even publications; and for some getting outside (on good days!) to work in nature is the most appropriate way to develop their artistic practice. Whatever the area, our experienced tutors are here to build confidence and well-being through supported making.

Gaada is passionate about reducing barriers to high quality, longterm, creative development for the growing community of artists that exist in Shetland. Our Artist Development Sessions are open to everyone: whether you are neurodiverse or neurotypical, living with a disability or without.

 Being a member of SDSS means we are now in a better position to reach the disabled community of Shetland, and better customise workshops to meet additional support requirements. Beyond our Artist Development Sessions we also develop group sessions for those who would like their making experience to also help them develop friendships and team-work skills. So if you, or someone you know, would like to find out more about SDS and how it can be used to develop your creative skills – please get in touch to find out more!