Pearl Bamford died aged 19. Having supported her through her struggles her parents saw the need for an inspiring, creative community that could help support young adults in the North Cornwall area. The Pearl Exchange builds connections and facilitates mentorships with inspirational figures in the arts and creative worlds, both locally and nationally. Through a series of creative and practical workshops and drop-in sessions participants gain vital employability skills, aspirations and self-esteem. Integral to The Pearl Exchange is free access to an onsite trained counsellor and peer to peer support groups to assist with participant’s mental health and resilience. All our workshops, talks, sessions and therapy are free of charge for the participants to attend. Covid-19 has had a drastic impact on our communities but young people are going to be some of the worst affected. Youth unemployment is set to hit the 1 million mark this year and issues around mental health are rising dramatically due to the long periods of isolation and the loss of future prospects. Cornwall already has the 3rd highest suicide rate in the UK and according to the Kernow Clinical Commissioning Group the suicide rate has doubled during lockdown. It is now more important than ever that we invest in our community, provide practical support and offer young people prospects, aspirations and hope. And we at The Pearl Exchange believe that engagement in the arts is the way to do that.