About the Project
The Invest to Save: Arts in Health project hopes to develop creative approaches to health, particularly within the Public Health agenda and will offer networking, advocacy and training around the key government priorities identified in Choosing Health, the white paper on public health including:
- Reducing the numbers of people who smoke
- Reducing obesity and improving health and nutrition
- Increasing exercise
- Encouraging and supporting sensible drinking
- Improving sexual health
- Improving mental health
Regional Director of Public Health, Professor John Ashton is the project sponsor and a strong advocate for the arts. He comments;
'A major part of the Invest to Save: Arts in Health Programme is concerned with the development of creative learning networks, which will provide opportunities for the arts and health sectors to develop and share good practice and secure support for their personal development.
Building on this, we’re undertaking a unique research and evaluation programme, which will explore the impact of arts and health work and establish the potential for savings on health, regeneration and social care budgets. This is a really fantastic opportunity to look creatively at the health agenda across our region.'
Michael Eakin, Arts Council England, North West Executive Director said,
"Arts Council England, North West is taking a national lead on partnering with Public Health. The Invest to Save: Arts in Health Programme is a unique opportunity for the North West to demonstrate the impact of the arts on the health of communities across the region. We are committed to strengthening partnerships within the health sector and supporting artists to work within health contexts.''
