Iriss

We know that creativity can change lives for the better and our aim in conducting the survey was to understand how the creative arts are being used, and the impact this type of work can have for people supported by services and for staff. As such, the purpose of the work was to capture some of the experiential knowledge held by professionals working in this area, to share this knowledge more widely across the sector and to provide inspiration to others. 

In early 2013 Consilium research (commissioned by Skills for Care and the Baring Foundation) conducted a literature review of available evidence to explore the role of the arts in delivering social care outcomes. Jim Thomas gives us an overview of the research findings.

The arts continue to gain recognition as a vital part of society. In particular, there is increasing acknowledgment that the arts can offer practical and innovative ways to impact on the positive factors that nurture health and wellbeing (Seligman, 2011).

The Village Storytelling Centre was founded in 2000 has a strong history of supporting disadvantaged groups of people to access and benefit from involvement in the arts, in particular storytelling.  One such group is young carers. These young people are seen as doubly disadvantaged from accessing arts (and other) activities as they not only have their caring responsibilities, but also often come from a fixed income family.

North Ayrshire Council Addiction Services (NACAS) Creative Arts Project has been running for a number of years. Art therapy is a method of addiction treatment that uses the creative process to improve and enhance the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of recovering individuals.

Background

KEY Community Supports operates throughout Scotland to provide support for people with disabilities. KEY had approached Iriss for suggestions about how they might deliver training and advice to its support workers at the point where support is delivered.

Darren Levine is Manager of Innovation and Research for the Social Services Department, The Regional Municipality of Durham, Ontario, Canada. This role involves supporting the development, implementation, and evaluation of staff-driven innovation and research across the department's divisions - Children's Services, Family Services, Income and Employment Support, Housing Services, Long Term Care and Services for Seniors, and Business Affairs and Financial Management.