REECH creative programme

REECH is a programme of creative activities taking place in the north of the borough around Banstead and Tadworth, which was introduced summer 2025. It aims to help local people REECH an improvement in their health and wellbeing through creativity.

'REECH' stands for Relax, Engage, Experience, Create, Hydrate emotionally. 

Join the REECH Creative Network

Our Arts Development Officer works with local organisations and venues through the REECH Creative Network, which is an opportunity for artists and creative practitioners to help develop and deliver workshops and events.

The first meeting took place in January 26 but you can still register your interest to be involved in delivering workshops and events by emailing debora.alleyne-degazon@reigate-banstead.gov.uk

2026 REECH programmes in Tadworth

Free REECH  - Relax and Create: Surreal Acrylic and Collage for Beginners

Unwind and get creative in this relaxed 6-week course led by Rue Stanley. Explore acrylic painting and collage in a playful, supportive space—no experience needed, just curiosity!

  •  Suitable for: 18 years and above
  •  Dates: 16 June, 23 June, 30 June , 7 July, 14 July, 21 July
  •  Time: 3 - 5.30 pm
  •  Location: Community Room, Tadworth Leisure Centre, Preston Manor Road, Tadworth, KT20 5FB

Limited spaces. To register or for more information please email: debora.alleyne-degazon@reigate-banstead.gov.uk

Come relax, experiment, and create something uniquely yours.

Free monthly REECH - Creative Writing programme: "The Story Jar – unlocking memories and building stories through creative expression"

Join Kate Mc Barron for friendly, inclusive writing sessions, no experience needed. A great way to build confidence, share stories, and support wellbeing.

Suitable for: 18 years and above, including people with dementia, carers, and those with low confidence or communication needs.

  • Dates: 24 June, 15 July, 5 August, 2 September, 23 September, 14 October, 4 November
  • Time: 2.15 - 4.15 pm
  • Location: Community Room, Tadworth Leisure Centre,Preston Manor Road, Tadworth, KT20 5FB          

Limited spaces. To register or for more information please email debora.alleyne-degazon@reigate-banstead.gov.uk

Free monthly REECH Rhythm and Movement Dance Social

Enjoy a fun, inclusive mix of Latin, Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Soul & more! Led by Lynda Blyth Phillips, sessions include gentle seated, standing and freestyle movement, followed by refreshments provided by Michael George - Mango Kitchen.

Boost wellbeing in a friendly, creative space — “something different from the mundane routine!”

Suitable for: 18 years and above, seniors, wheelchair users, people with Parkinson’s, dementia, mobility or learning needs, carers and more.

  • Dates: 20 May, 24 June, 29 July, 30 September, 28 October
  • Time: 1 - 3pm
  • Location: St Mark’s Church, Great Tattenhams, KT18 5RB

No need to book. Come move, connect, and feel good.

Additional information email: debora.alleyne-degazon@reigate-banstead.gov.uk

2026 REECH programmes in Banstead

Free monthly REECH Beginners Sketching programme for 18 years and above

Join artist Peter Andrews as he enhances your confidence with a step-by-step guide to developing basic sketching skills such as line and contour drawing; shape and form recognition; understanding the value of light and shade; introduction to the 5 'p's of drawing; application of techniques to draw a selected object.

  • Dates: 14 March 2026 (occurring once a month)– other dates include 11 April, 9 May, 6 June, 1 August, 29 August, 26 September, 24 October, 21 November, and 19 December.
  • Time: 2 - 4pm
  • Location: Banstead Library, The Horseshoe, Bolters Lane, Banstead, SM7 2AW

Limited space is available – please register at the Banstead Library Help Desk.

2025 REECH programme

The REECH programme began in summer 2025 and during the first six-months delivered the following activities.

REECH Art coffee mornings

Free drawing and watercolour painting workshops over four weekly sessions for all ages and abilities, delivered by a member of the Banstead Art Society and hosted by the Banstead Library.

Black History Month activities:

  • Afro-Caribbean Creative Experience – a two-day activity during October half term for 5- to 12-year-olds and parents, which resulted in a display at the Banstead Horticultural Society Late Autumn Show
  • The Carnival – Interactive storytelling and craft session, including an exhibition of carnival costumes, dress up and craft for all ages in collaboration with the Banstead Library
  • Black Jazz singers of yesterday – in collaboration with the musical director Anthony Woolfeden of Come and Sing this was an experience for seniors to sing songs from Black jazz singers from the war period and beyond

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