AN Essex civic leader and charity founder from Thurrock has been honoured at the Palace of Westminster for his work using creativity to support mental health, inclusion and wellbeing across communities in the UK and internationally.
David Barton received a British Citizen Award for Services to the Arts yesterday for his sustained voluntary work through the charity Get Started Art, which provides free creative resources to children, vulnerable adults and people with additional needs.
The award forms part of the British Citizen Awards programme, known as The People’s Honours, which celebrates individuals who have made a significant contribution to society through voluntary service and civic commitment. Recipients are presented with a Medal of Honour inscribed with the words “For the Good of the Country”.
Mr Barton founded Get Started Art in 2022 to address gaps in access to creative wellbeing support for those experiencing mental health challenges, trauma or isolation. Since its launch, the charity has distributed more than 1.5 million creative resources, including art-therapy books and activity packs, to schools, care homes, hospitals and community organisations across Essex, the UK and overseas.
The charity’s work focuses on accessibility and inclusion, ensuring creative participation is possible regardless of age, ability or background. The resources are now widely used by children with additional needs, care home residents, people living in refuge, and individuals recovering from illness or distress.
Speaking after the ceremony, Mr Barton said,
“This honour really belongs to the communities and volunteers who believe that creativity can be a quiet but powerful force for good. I have simply been fortunate enough to work alongside people who care deeply about improving the lives of others. Creativity has an extraordinary way of reaching people when words cannot, and if this recognition helps shine a light on the many individuals and organisations who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support wellbeing, inclusion and dignity through simple acts of kindness, then it has truly served its purpose.”
The medal presentation was hosted by broadcaster Konnie Huq and attended by British Citizen Award patrons including Dame Mary Perkins DBE and The Right Honourable The Lord Mott OBE. Following the ceremony, recipients took part in a ceremonial procession through central London.
The British Citizen Awards honour individuals from all walks of life whose voluntary service has made a measurable difference to communities across the country.
