Launch of Report highlights value of embedding creative initiatives in formal healthcare planning
The launch of the evaluation report of a unique collaborative programme, supporting the arts and creativity in care settings in Roscommon and Mayo took place today in Roscommon Arts Centre.
The Mayo Roscommon Care and Creativity in Context project provided 15 professional artists from across Counties Mayo and Roscommon with bespoke training in end-of-life care and bereavement.
Participants demonstrated interest in engaging in creative activities, benefitting mental and emotional health and overall wellbeing. In all, 652 creative sessions were delivered benefitting older people, families, visitors and care staff.
With more than 2352 participant engagements across all care settings, feedback from participating artists highlighted the value of upskilling and professional development, practical application of learnings, and opportunities to collaborate and explore new practices.
Supported by a total award of €140,000, the initiative set out to expand access to arts and creative opportunities across a wide range of healthcare and community contexts—from private homes and hospitals to nursing homes and hospices.
This evaluation examines the implementation and outcomes of the project, a two-year long initiative delivered jointly by Roscommon County Council and Mayo County Council, delivered under the Creative Health and Wellbeing Pillar of the Creative Ireland Programme, and with the support and assistance of the Irish Hospice Foundation and Healthy Ireland.
Speaking at the launch, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Liam Callaghan remarked: “The evaluation of Care and Creativity in Context affirms that creativity at the end of life is not an extra, it is essential. It brings joy, dignity, connection and a sense of self at a time when so much else is taken away.
It is important to pay tribute to the artists at the centre of this project as well as the support of the many dedicated staff of HSE nursing homes, hospices and hospital units without whom this project would not have been possible.” Cllr. Callaghan concluded.
