Arts for Health support gives Alfie the confidence to follow his dream
At Alder Hey Children’s Charity, we are proud to support programmes that bring hope, confidence, and joy to the children and young people in our care. One shining example is Alder Hey’s Arts for Health programme, which provides creative and cultural opportunities led by experts to help young people explore their interests and potential. These experiences not only offer a welcome distraction during hospital appointments and stays but also give young people valuable tools for self-expression, wellbeing, and growth.
One young person who has experienced the positive impact of Arts for Health is 11-year-old Alfie. Alfie recently took part in The Dreamers Project, a 10-week programme for young people aged 8–18 who are accessing mental health support at Alder Hey.
Alfie has autism, and when he first joined the sessions, he struggled with perfectionism, worrying if his artwork didn’t turn out exactly how he imagined it. This made it difficult for him to enjoy the creative process. With encouragement from artist and TV presenter Gemma Longworth, Alfie gradually began to embrace creativity as a journey rather than focusing solely on the end result. Through drawing, expressive painting, and textile-based projects, Alfie gained confidence and learned to experiment without fear of mistakes.
Over time, Alfie discovered a new passion: developing his very own ‘scouse’ fashion brand. Inspired by Liverpool clothing companies Montirex and Transalpino, Alfie designed t-shirts celebrating his local heroes, including MMA fighter Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett and boxer Callum Smith.
As part of The Dreamers Project, Alfie was able to take part in a series of exciting opportunities outside the studio. He visited the Bluecoat where he screen-printed his own designs, took part in a professional photoshoot with LMA Academy, and even exhibited his work at a city centre exhibition and book launch. One of the highlights of his journey was meeting boxer Callum Smith, who congratulated Alfie on his achievements and became the proud owner of one of his t-shirts.
Alfie’s growth has been remarkable. His school has celebrated his achievements in their newsletter, and his headteacher attended the exhibition where Alfie’s work was on display. Inspired by his experience, Alfie has now launched his very own brand, Soul Stitch, creating t-shirts that raise awareness about autism. With the support of the Arts for Health team, he has even developed a website and taken his first steps towards running his own creative business.
Reflecting on his journey, Alfie said:
“Gemma is the kind of person who gives her whole heart to what she does. In the studio, she has been a constant source of guidance and belief. She saw potential in me even when I didn’t see it in myself. She’s pushed me, encouraged me and helped me to grow – not just in my skills, but in my confidence. She’s the reason I now walk into the room with my head held a little higher. Because I know someone believes in me.”
Gemma also spoke about her experience of working with Alfie:
“It has been a privilege to work with Alfie, his journey is a powerful example of how creativity can transform lives. Through his designs and his passion for raising awareness about autism, he has grown in confidence and found his voice, inspiring others along the way. The Dreamers Programme gives young people like Alfie a voice, a sense of purpose and something to be proud of. It’s a wonderful programme to be a part of.”
Alfie’s mum, Janine, added:
“Gemma has been amazing with Alfie, not just helping him pursue his passion with art and t-shirts but with his confidence and everything else. I can’t thank her enough, especially with Alfie starting senior school this year—she came into his life at just the right time.”
We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to our donors at the Eric Wright Charitable Trust, whose generous support of The Dreamers Programme has helped transform the lives of young people like Alfie.
