A ‘WONDERFUL creative haven’ in the centre of Christchurch- The Clay Studio is Trader of the Week.

Found on the high street, The Clay Studio is modern pottery painting studio and café that allows its visitors to get truly creative.

The business was taken over by Joannah Bishop in November of last year, following 16 years of ownership by Mary and Martin Payne.

Prior to this, Joannah had been running her own domiciliary care agency, Better Care at Home, and would take many of her clients to The Clay Studio to enjoy pottery painting.

Joannah said: “I’ve always painted in The Clay Studio. I got to know the previous owners Martin and Mary, and I started to bring some of my clients that are here- the ones that are mobile.

“I did dementia painting, so using the colours that people with dementia really see well. That started working really well. It’s a really brilliant activity.”

When the original owners decided to retire, Joannah saw an ‘opportunity’ to combine pottery painting with her community care and create a ‘unique concept’ for the elderly people she was caring for.

Bournemouth Echo: Joannah Bishop Joannah Bishop (Image: Joannah Bishop)

Joannah said: “Having a clay studio is my own personal passion, but I’m also extending it out into the community, to offer support for the elderly, and a really safe environment for them to come and enjoy themselves.”

Since taking over, Joannah has launched ‘Better Craft and Paint’, and has announced plans to begin a day centre for the elderly, giving them a place to socialise, paint and enjoy light bites at a discounted rate.

She also plans to visit care homes and run painting activities for their residents, seeing her two businesses well and truly combined.

Joannah said: “It’s a really great thing for elderly people to do, especially if they are a bit confused.”

But the ‘activity hub’ that Joannah has created is not limited to pottery painting- she will also be offering music and movement classes with a physiotherapist, a zen zone, and reiki and spiritual healing.

Care related advice will also be available at the studio, including advanced care planning, moving and handling safely and lasting power of attorney advice.

For more information visit www.theclaystudio.co.uk