MK Arts for Health: Evaluation
Willis Newson worked with Milton Keynes Arts for Health to evaluate the first year (2011-2012) of its Arts on Prescription project in Milton Keynes. Arts on Prescription offers a course of arts-based activities on referral to participants with mild to moderate mental health needs.
The evaluation presented both quantitative and qualitative data and analysis in support of its findings. Its results suggest that introducing participants to arts skills and techniques as part of a group and in a safe and sympathetic environment helped to build self-esteem, increase confidence and contribute to improved relationships with others. The reported impacts of these changes included an enhanced sense of personal and mental wellbeing; greater confidence and ability in relation to social integration; and an increased desire to engage in outside activities, including work, volunteering and an ongoing engagement with art.