'Direct payments helped me to become an artist'

Sally Hirst, an award-winning artist, has been able to pursue her artistic dreams thanks to the freedom provided by managing her own social care funding. At just 24 years old, Sally, who lives in Old Trafford, has autism and learning disabilities, but she has found her passion in art. Currently, she is an artist in residence at the Everyday Art School located in the Whitworth Gallery in Manchester. After facing health challenges that led her to withdraw from college, Sally made the decision to use her funding to enroll in a program specifically designed for artists with learning disabilities. She expressed her joy by saying, 'It just feels really amazing to be able to do something that I love and enjoy and I'm passionate about all the time. ' One of her most cherished subjects to paint is her foster brother, who is a refugee from Afghanistan. In her artwork, she used vibrant colors, particularly a deep blue background, to depict her brother, who has dark, floppy hair that partially covers his eyes. Sally's painting style is characterized by broad brush strokes, creating a striking and emotional image. During her time at Venture Arts in Hulme, she was able to refine her skills and grow as an artist. The funding for her placement came from direct payments provided by Trafford Council, which allows individuals to have more control over their care services. This approach is designed to empower service users to choose the support they need in a way that fits their lifestyle. Jenny Gibson, a representative from Trafford Council, emphasized the importance of personalized care by stating, 'Everybody is different. Everybody has different needs and wants, and we just want people to be able to get the care that they want in the way that they want it to suit their own lifestyle. ' Sally's artwork has gained recognition and has been exhibited at various venues, including the Jewish Museum in Manchester, the People's History Museum, and the Portico Library. Additionally, she co-curated an art exhibition in Bali, showcasing her talent on an international stage. In 2024, she was honored with the title of Young Creative of the Year at the Manchester Culture Awards. Her mother, Emma Hirst, expressed her pride in Sally's accomplishments, stating, 'It's allowed her to follow her dreams. She is an artist working at a studio, and that's what's so amazing. It gives her such confidence and purpose. ' Sally's journey highlights the significance of having the ability to choose one's own care and the positive impact it can have on pursuing one's passions.