Shining light on Rowan

Over the past four decades, Rowan has grown into a safe, creative and welcoming community where people can connect, develop new skills and express themselves through the arts. By using creativity as a tool for inclusion, the charity helps reduce social isolation while enabling people to build confidence, independence and meaningful relationships.

Through a wide range of activities and opportunities, Rowan supports students to reach their full potential and improve their health, wellbeing and happiness. The charity also provides valuable respite and support for families and carers, helping to strengthen communities across Cambridgeshire.

What they offer

• Drama
• Music
• Print
• Ceramics
• Woodwork
• Textiles
• Forest school
• Movement for wellbeing
• Mixed media

Rowan’s 2026 annual survey

The findings from Rowan’s 2026 Annual Survey reflect the positive impact the charity continues to have on the people it supports. Recent funding applications have also provided an opportunity to showcase Rowan’s work, highlighting both the breadth of its services and the experiences shared by students, families and carers through the survey.

Rowan was delighted to receive an “Excellent” rating from Cambridge City Council in January, recognising the high-quality support, opportunities and outcomes it delivers for its community. The survey responses and personal stories included throughout this report demonstrate the difference Rowan makes in helping people build confidence, develop skills, improve wellbeing and lead more independent lives.

Through its arts and outdoor learning programmes, Rowan works to

• Help people feel connected and less isolated.
• Build confidence, self-esteem and resilience.
• Develop skills, independence and opportunities for personal growth.
• Improve physical health, mental wellbeing and overall quality of life.
• Enable people to make choices and have greater control over their lives.
• Encourage creativity, participation and self-expression.
• Provide much-needed respite and support for families and carers.

Join Rowan’s community classes

Looking to get creative, learn something new and meet new people? Rowan’s community classes take place every Monday and Thursday evening from 6.30pm to 9pm, offering a welcoming space to explore creativity and connect with others. Rowan also hosts one-off masterclasses throughout the year, with the next taking place on Sunday 6 September.

Get involved: upcoming events at Rowan

To book your tickets:

• Music and Drama showcase
• ‘Connections’ Exhibition