A three-year arts programme at Tŷ Llywelyn, a specialist psychiatric unit in North Wales, has demonstrated the positive impact that arts and creativity can have on mental health and wellbeing.
At the heart of the project was Hope, a play inspired by Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton and themes of survival, purpose and hope. Co-written by patients and staff with professional artists, it saw patients take an active role across the creative process – from acting and music production to costume and set design – culminating in two performances. In addition, a documentary was also filmed, featuring interviews with many staff and patients who took part in Hope, to share their experiences first hand.
The production involved 50 people, including 23 patients, and formed part of three years of creative activity at the unit, designed to build confidence, connection and a sense of purpose.