I've attended several APPG meetings over the last couple of years and noticed a commitment from all in the room, including cross party MPs, to the idea the arts are beneficial for health and wellbeing.
The report produces evidence to show: "...how arts-based aproaches can help people to stay well, recover faster, manage long term conditions and experience a better quality of life. We also show how arts interventions can save money and help staff in their work."
It recommends the National Institiute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) includes the use of the arts in healthcare in its guidance where evidence justifies it.
It also hopes that:
- New collaborations will be formed across conventional boundaries.
- The thinking and practice of people working in health and social care will be influenced.
- A new culture will grow that supports the government in the process of change towards the creation of a society which is both healthy and "health creating."
It calls for "all those who believe in the value of the arts for health and wellbeing to speak up. We will work with all who believe, as we do, that the arts offer an essential opportunity for the improvement of health and wellbeing."
That's a call out to all arts and health and wellbeing practitioners for sure!
Contact Alexandra Coutler on: coultera@parliament.uk to show your support.
