Arts in hospitals toolkit hails Derby as exemplars

A new toolkit, which provides a framework for embedding high-quality arts interventions in hospitals, has been published with a case study showcasing work taking place in Derby Hospitals.

Launched by the National Arts in Hospitals Network (NAHN), the toolkit offers a suite of resources covering six essential areas: governance, strategy, evaluation, collection management, art and environment and participatory arts.

It was developed by creative health consultant Jane Willis in collaboration with NAHN members, with accessible visual design by Jennie Ives and funding from Arts Council England.

Laura Waters, head of arts with Air Arts, which is part of Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity and a director at NAHN, said: “We are very proud that our work here in Derby has been recognised within this guidance.

“It represents a watershed moment for hospital arts in the UK, and, for the first time, hospital arts managers and NHS leaders have access to comprehensive, evidence-based tools that demonstrate how creative interventions can be strategically embedded within healthcare delivery.”