About Us
Project Creative Pathways CIC was born from the love of visual art and determination to share with others and change lives through creative wellbeing programmes. Established to address social isolation and unequal access to creative opportunities experienced by children, young people and adults across our communities. We work with individuals who may be affected by loneliness, reduced wellbeing, substance misuse, caring responsibilities, or additional needs and who often face barriers to participating in creative or educational activity.
The organisation was created in response to a clear and growing need for creative wellbeing programmes: many people benefit significantly from creative engagement, yet access to equipment, safe spaces and structured support is often limited by financial, social, or personal circumstances. Project Creative Pathways CIC exists to remove those barriers and to ensure creativity is accessible to everyone, regardless of background or ability.
Our Values
Creativity as communication
We recognise photography and creative practice as valid and powerful forms of communication. For many people, particularly those who find verbal expression challenging, creativity provides a way to be heard, understood and seen.
Non-judgement and dignity
We work without stigma or assumptions. We respect every individual’s lived experience and ensure all participants are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect, regardless of background, identity, ability, or circumstance.
Choice and autonomy
We believe people are experts in their own lives. Participation is always voluntary, with individuals supported to make choices about how and when they engage, at a pace that feels right for them.
Progress, not perfection
We value small steps, effort, and engagement. Progress is personal and non-linear, and all forms of positive change are recognised and respected.
Ethical responsibility, equality, and access
We are committed to equality, equity, and inclusive access. We actively work to remove financial, social, and practical barriers that prevent participation, and we use resources responsibly, transparently and in the best interests of the communities we serve.
Our Mission
Our mission is to use photography and creative practice to support wellbeing, overcome barriers, and enhance personal development for children, young people, and adults experiencing social isolation, or the impacts of addiction.
We provide safe, structured and inclusive creative spaces that remove financial and social barriers, support recovery and resilience and help people reconnect with themselves, with others and with new possibilities.
Our Purpose
To help people reconnect with themselves, with others and with new possibilities. We believe creativity can offer a powerful means of expression, reflection, and connection, particularly for those who may struggle to communicate their experiences in other ways.
By providing access to creative tools, supportive environments, and skilled facilitation, we aim to contribute to healthier, more inclusive communities where individuals feel seen, valued and supported.
How We Deliver Our Work
We deliver cohort-based photography and other type of creative wellbeing programmes through structured sessions, typically over six weeks. Programmes are designed to be flexible, inclusive and responsive to individual needs and are delivered in partnership with local authorities, schools, charities, recovery services and community organisations.
Our approach prioritises participation, process and personal development over artistic performance. Sessions are adapted for different groups, including children and young people, individuals in recovery, vulnerable adults and children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Where funding allows, participants may also access certification, equipment use and progression opportunities.
The Founder
John Ursu
Founder & CEO
John is the Founder and CEO of Project Creative Pathways CIC, bringing over 15 years of expertise in photography, videography, and creative education. Educated to a Masters Degree level, he combines the mindset of a creative practitioner with the professionalism of a IT business leader in higher education, grounding his work in strong leadership, safeguarding awareness and a deep commitment to community wellbeing.
Throughout his career, John has worked across Essex, London, and surrounding areas, delivering visual arts projects that empower people to reconnect with their confidence, identity, and potential. His creative practice is rooted in storytelling, curiosity, and human connection , principles that shape every programme delivered through Project Creative Pathways CIC.
Before developing his visual arts career, John worked extensively in music and creative education, supporting children and young people to explore music production, live instrumentation, and sound engineering. These experiences strengthened his belief that creativity can be transformative when people are given the right tools, safe spaces, and encouragement.
John has founded Project Creative Pathways CIC to provide exactly that: accessible, stigma‑free, and welcoming opportunities for individuals who may be facing challenges such as social isolation, substance misuse, reduced wellbeing, caring responsibilities, or additional needs. He is dedicated to ensuring that photography can be used as a practical tool for reflection, expression, and building hope.
In addition to his creative background, John brings a strong operational and compliance foundation. He is fully trained in health and safety, first aid, GDPR, safeguarding, and essential professional standards, ensuring that every session is delivered with safety, ethics, and care at the forefront. His work is supported by ongoing learning and reflective practice, keeping the organisation aligned with best‑practice expectations for commissioners and partners.
John is also committed to collaboration and co‑creation, working alongside local organisations, community groups, and practitioners to design opportunities that are responsive, inclusive, and genuinely impactful. His vision is to build creative pathways that help people feel seen, valued, and capable, no matter their starting point.
“Creativity can shift how a person sees themselves and their future. My aim is to create spaces where people feel supported to experiment, express themselves, and rediscover the possibility within their own story.”
John’s professional photography and videography work can be viewed at:
www.unframedmoments.co.uk
Instagram: @unframedmoments_pv
Creativity Heals Souls
Empowering Through Creativity
We collaborate with many amazing people from the world of creative art. Our programmes foster social connection and personal growth through photography, ensuring everyone feels included and valued.
100%
Participant Satisfaction
95%
Inclusivity Rate
Creativity Heals Souls
Empowering Through Creativity
Our Mission and Vision for Inclusion
Empowering Through Creativity
1
Supporting Individuals in Need
Support
2
Our Commitment to Wellbeing
Wellbeing
3
Engaging Through Photography and Art
Engagement
4
Creating Safe Spaces for All
Safety
5
Building Partnerships for Impact
Partnerships