More than 770 children in care, their families and carers have been able to take part in arts projects in Derby thanks to ticket donation scheme Plus One.
Started in 2013, Plus One has received donations totalling £12,500 as well as support from The Mighty Creatives, an Arts Council England organisation which helps children to access art and culture.
Derby Theatre, dance venue Déda and arts gallery QUAD will be celebrating the beginning of the second year of the scheme at the theatre on Monday (8 December).
Hosting the event will be Derby County Football Club’s chief executive and president Sam Rush and Plus One ambassador Aaron Lodge.
Richard Clark, chief executive of The Mighty Creatives which is donating up to £10,000 on a match-funding basis, said, “this ground-breaking scheme has already touched Derby’s generosity to create much-needed arts experience for children and young people in care.
“We’re hoping our renewed investment will help the scheme build on its initial success and give even more children and young people access to the life-changing benefits of the arts.”
Caroline Barth, Plus One co-ordinator and head of learning at Derby Theatre, added, ”this year we’re really hoping to enlist the support of businesses to go alongside the generous donations of local people."
Every ticket donated through Plus One will go to children in care and their carers, whether they are fostered or in children’s homes. The arts organisations will offer young people opportunities to get involved in projects including work experience placements, youth theatre and workshops.
Customers booking tickets for Derby Theatre, Déda or QUAD will be able to donate to Plus One. There will also be collections at performances of A Christmas Carol at Derby Theatre which runs from Friday 5 December until Sunday 4 January 2015.