Community Focus Inclusive Arts

11/02/2026

NEW EPISODE ALERT! Barnet Friends join us in the studio.

In today’s episode, we’re talking about something that touches many lives - loneliness. Joining us in the studio is Adam Wilson, a representative from Barnet Friends, a local organisation dedicated to supporting people who may be feeling lonlely or isolated. Barnet Friends connect volunteers with individuals who need companionship, a listening ear, or simply a friendly presence in their lives.

We’ll hear from Adam about the work they do, the difference these connections can make, and how we can all play a part in combating loneliness in our communities.

If you or someone you know could benefit from Barnet Friends, you can find out more and get in touch:

Website: https://www.barnetwellbeing.org.uk/barnet-friends
Email: Befriending@cbplus.org.uk
Phone: 020 8016 0016

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2409167/episodes/17918729-ep-53-combatting-loneliness-barnet-friends-join-us-in-the-studio

In today’s episode, we’re talking about something that touches many lives — loneliness. Joining us in the studio is Adam Wilson, a representative from Barnet Friends, a local organisation dedicated to supporting people who may be feeling lonlely o...

29/01/2026

The Nature Arts crew created these fabulous collaborative pieces celebrating what goes on both above and below the ground! Team birds and team worms! Check it out.

29/01/2026

Very proud of our podcasters in Ep 52. Some incredible insights and some really good news! ♥️ Check it out! #

Link in bio for full episode.

27/01/2026

New episode out today!

In today’s episode, we are celebrating! Annie has completed her Foundation year at Chickenshed, and we’re so proud of all she’s achieved. She also shares some insight into what it’s like to study on a course with additional needs, and the amazing support she has received along the way.

Phillip has been recognised in a special way too, receiving an award for his kindness — as well as the joy and positivity that make him such a valued member of our community.

We also have a thoughtful discussion about whether we are ‘introvert’ or ‘extrovert’ and how this affects our daily lives.

In today’s episode, we are celebrating! Annie has completed her Foundation year at Chickenshed, and we’re so proud of all she’s achieved. She also shares some insight into what it’s like to study on a course with additional needs, and the amazing ...

26/01/2026

Look at these fabulous newspaper portraits produced by the students in Photography. See if you can name them! Answers below…

24/01/2026

Laurent has temporarily moved on from buses, and look at the results! He’s such a talented painter.

16/01/2026

Look who I bumped into! Gila on her way into CF. Check out her new wheels - very cool indeed.

13/01/2026

First show of the year. Apologies in advance for the singing! 🥳

Welcome back to the world-famous Dis-labled Podcast! It’s a new year, and we’re kicking it off with a discussion about our doubts and hopes for this year. Whether you’re here to laugh, learn, or just hang out, we’re glad you’re starting 2026 ...

13/01/2026

We ♥️Bubble Club

Check out this lovely article by Community Living Magazine about the 20 years of magical club night at Bubble Club! 🥰🫧💃

To read full article go to:
https://communitylivingmagazine.com/magical-club-nights/

Photo

08/01/2026

Ever thought about Volunteering? Try Something new in 2026!

Community Focus Inclusive Arts is an inclusive arts charity working with children and adults with disabilities or additional needs. We provide creative, supportive spaces where people can learn new skills, build confidence and connect with others through the arts.

Founded in 1978 by photographer Maria Bartha, Community Focus Inclusive Arts began as a van-based photography project bringing creativity to disabled people across Barnet. More than forty years later, we are a vibrant, disabled-led arts organisation supporting over 200 people each year to express themselves, build confidence and find community through creativity.

Why volunteer?

Volunteers play a key role in helping us deliver our arts workshops and support our participants. Whether you can offer a few hours or make a regular commitment, your time, skills and enthusiasm will make a meaningful difference. You will help create a friendly, supportive environment where people can take part in creative activities, socialise and try something new. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, whether you are an artist or simply keen to help.

Where would I volunteer?

All volunteering takes place in our studios at Community Focus, Friary House, a beautiful historic building set within Friary Park in North London. Our studios are welcoming, accessible and at the heart of our creative community.

Our in-house classes include Ceramics, Fine Art, Jewellery and Textiles, Computers, Movement and Wellbeing, Creative Writing and Drama. Classes are specially designed so students can learn at their own pace in a safe, supportive setting. We welcome absolute beginners to experienced artists.

What are we currently looking for?

Activity Support Volunteers*. You will support professional tutors and participants in a range of classes including Art, Drama, Radio Drama, Drumming, Computing, Photography, Dance, Creative Writing, Needlecraft, Flower Arranging and Life Drawing.

Classes we currently need volunteers for:

Monday Ceramics AM 11:00am to 1:00pm
Tuesday Computers PM 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Nature Arts AM 11:00am to 1:00pm

If these times do not suit, we are always interested to hear from skilled and enthusiastic people, so please get in touch. If you have not already, please join our mailing list to keep up to date with our news.

For more information, or to arrange a visit to our studios, contact us at:

Andrea or Vicky:
admin@communityfocus.co.uk
020 3743 2326

Warm regards,
The Office Team

* All volunteers will need to undergo a DBS and provide two referees (this can be a teacher, past or current employer, or mentor).

23/12/2025

A Dream Community

Community Focus in Friary Park… what can I say…

I have written about them before, but I wanted to reaffirm what a wonderful place this is. Nestled in the trees at Friary Park a gorgeous historical building which houses rooms for art and other activities. But don’t be fooled … when you walk in the doors you realise it’s a magical place. Full of love and celebration.

My adult son Imi who has autism and learning difficulties has been attending for many years and he sees this wonderful organisation as a second home. He is always made welcome, and the staff and teachers go above and beyond their duties in their care.

John Mccafferty, who has his own challenges has been the captain of CF for at least five years and what a great job he has done. We are so sorry that he has stepped down. He was the comforting face of Community Focus.

There is no formality, the service users and parent/carers wander into the office at all times. The classes are a chance for the service users to interact as well as learn new fun skills.

In my personal experience with Imi I feel that the encouragement never wanes every member of staff are brilliant cheerleaders and kind amazing people.

People with special needs thrive on “the feeling” they get from other people. Not just their words and actions.

Community Focus is an independent charity so rely on donations. I cannot stress enough how vitally important it is to keep places like this open and available to the adult special needs community.

As a mother I can confirm that there are not too many options for our special people. Please support us in any way you can.

We have to do everything we can to ensure that these precious havens can continue to support our special community.

Sev Mawany

23/12/2025

IT’S THE BIG ONE! - our 50th podcast episode!

To listen click here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2409167/episodes/18245746-ep-50-it-s-our-50th-episode-we-celebrate-with-the-incredible-musician-genesis-brown

To mark the occasion, this special episode features live music from *Genesis Brown*, an extraordinary musician whose incredible talent and story has inspired us all.

Genesis joins us alongside his mum for a heartfelt conversation about his life, his passion for music, and the journey they’ve shared.

Here’s to the next 50!