A Carlisle charity which looks to bridge the gap between the arts industry and people with additional needs met with a leading Government minister.

Bosses at Prism Arts said they were 'delighted' to host Nadine Dorries, the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). 

The Secretary of State got the opportunity to tour the studio at the Central Methodist Hall, alongside seeing artwork produced by the charity's artists and to find out more about the developing of accessible arts programmes that have empowered those with disabilities for over 35 years. 

"The passion of the team and the dynamic programme they are delivering is great, really placing people with disabilities at the heart of their own journey," she said.

']If I was supporting a young person with a disability I would want them to come to Prism Arts'

The leading message behind the charity is to create a world of art in which barriers are non-existent. 

News and Star: CREATORS: Smiles all round as the artwork is on show. CREATORS: Smiles all round as the artwork is on show.

Annually the group gives more than 4,500 people with learning disabilities and/or autism the confidence, skills and drive they need to grow their independence and boost their wellbeing, with their 'person-led' approach to arts and creation. 

The charity relies on the generosity and support of others to fund its mission. 

To help the charity reach more people and grow its impact, you can make a one-off donation, run a fundraising campaign, donate materials or even your time to chip in. 

News and Star: TEAM: Secretary of State gets involved in the creative process. TEAM: Secretary of State gets involved in the creative process.

A spokesperson from Prism Arts said: "No matter now big or small, we’d love to talk to you about your fundraising ideas. We have an enthusiastic team ready to support you through every step of your fundraising journey. Perhaps you don’t have an idea yet, we’d still love to hear from you – we have plenty of suggestions," they said. 

READ MORE: Prism Arts is helping bring diversity to the arts industry