Local charity CanInspire host jewellery making workshops for people experiencing illness, trauma or loss as a way to provide them with a relaxing and creative outlet during a difficult time in their lives. 

But this week, due to COVID-19 social distancing restrictions, it took its Invercargill class digital for the first time so members of the Cancer Society could still participate and stay connected at a time when they needed creative therapy the most. 

Kit-bags filled with tools, beads and findings were sent to eight participants from all across Southland before the workshop was hosted live on a private Facebook group – where everyone involved got to make a beaded necklace and set of earrings. 

CanInspire Southland Regional Coordinator Rachael Allan said the class was so successful that the charity was looking at continuing the online workshops even after the Alert Levels are lifted, as it allowed those who lived more remotely throughout the region the opportunity to participate and stay connected. 

"The positive thing that's come out of this is that it's opened up to say the person living in Te Anau say who doesn't want to come all the way to Invercargill and back for a class."

Cancer Society Supportive Care staff member Cindy Quertier echoed these comments and also said that some people simply didn't want to travel because they were immune-comprised, so having the option to participate from the safety of their own home meant no one was left out.

"If virtual classes are offered again in the future we'll definitely be using it again," she said. 

CanInspire was founded in 2010 by Sarah Clifford after she was diagnosed with melanoma in 2008 at just 28 years old. Whilst undergoing 28 days of radiation treatment, she created and wore a different necklace each day and said this process not only provided distraction and fun, but also a great sense of purpose and accomplishment. 

Ms Clifford knew by starting these beading workshops she could help so many others in similar situations. Since then CanInspire has been offering creative therapy workshops all over the country and the charity has run seven workshops in Southland.