Campaigners are fighting to save the only art therapy group in Sutton helping people with mental health problems to resolve conflicts.

The oversubscribed sessions at Sutton Hospital are more beneficial than counselling for those unable to express feelings and thoughts verbally.

But members have been told by South West London and St George’s Mental Health Trust that the group could face closure within a month.

They are now enlisting the help of Sutton and Cheam MP Paul Burstow to petition for their lifeline to be saved.

Mr Burstow said: “Scrapping this would have a serious impact on the quality of life of those who use it.

2For some people, counselling is not the right answer and they have found art therapy makes a real difference.

“I can’t understand how axeing this class can be justified.

"Its members are distraught and the long waiting list is evidence of its popularity. I’ve written to the trust and hope they will give me some answers.”

Art therapy is a form of psychoanalysis using self-expression to help resolve conflicts, develop interpersonal skills, increase self-esteem and reduce stress.

This week the trust said the group was being disbanded as part of a drive to deliver three per cent savings year-on-year.

A spokeswoman said: “This is not the closure of the art psychotherapy department. Arts psychotherapy will still be available in Sutton.

“This has been a difficult decision. The trust is committed to ensuring those who attend are supported during this process. We will hold individual meetings to review service users’ needs and agree how these can be best met in the future.”

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