Art for Health

Within the Trust we have an 'Art for Health' group. It includes staff from lots of teams and services, and some patients. We all have an interest in art and how it can help in the NHS.

The are lots of benefits to art and creativity. It can improve patient experience, health outcomes, and quality of life. It helps with mental health and wellbeing including reducing depression and anxiety. It also increase social engagement to help the prevention of loneliness and isolation.

We want to provide creative opportunities to improve wellbeing and experience, for all. This includes our staff, patients and the local community.

Some of the ways we can do this is through:

• Staff wellbeing sessions, workshops, and other activities.
• Meaningful creative activities for patients in our wards and hospitals.
• Improving and adding artwork in our buildings.

We are excited to announce a new initiative to improve patient, visitor, and staff experiences across our Trust sites. We know that the little things can make a big difference. Simple artwork not only uplifts our spirits but also contributes positively to wellbeing, involvement and health outcomes.

The  Art for Health working group is proud to launch  a  Trust-wide campaign   to identify spaces within our offices, buildings, and sites that would benefit from the installation of new art. This may include paintings, murals, wall decorations, vinyl, photographs, and other creative works!

Our aims for this project include:

• improve the way people navigate through our buildings
• improve staff, patient, carer, and community wellbeing through engagement
• improve staff morale, and retention
• ensure artwork is representative of the local area
• improve staff, patient, and carer experience
• consistently work towards estates that are accessible to all  
• develop more creative opportunities for people

How you can help!

Would you like to see your artwork brightening up NHS hospitals and healthcare spaces? Whether it’s a painting, drawing, photograph, or craft, we’d love to showcase your creativity! We’re looking for artwork that captures the beauty of Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s landscapes and local environments.

Anyone can get involved — whether you're an experienced artist, a beginner, or part of a group, your artwork could help make our hospitals feel warmer, more welcoming, and uplifting for patients, visitors, and staff.

To take part, email a high-quality digital picture of your artwork, along with your name and the title or location of your piece to whcnhs.communityengagement@nhs.net