This Healthy HeARTS and Minds project aimed to develop a menu of weekly arts opportunities in east Belfast which would supplement the already existing structures for social prescribing there. Creative activities are widely known to be effective methods of addressing mental health issues as well as offering opportunities to improve physical health and well being.
The project, in partnership with the East Belfast Community Development Agency offered weekly, donation based creative workshops delivered by local artists hosted in local community settings in the east. Training was offered throughout the programme for local artists and EastSide volunteers ensuring participants were facilitated by experienced artists.
Through creative workshops such as; craft, dance, music, drama and more, participants learned about the Take 5 steps to wellbeing and were actively encouraged to practice Take 5 steps by learning new skills/interests, connecting with new people, getting active, giving their time to attend or volunteer, and taking notice of their wellbeing.
