According to one of its founders, a collaborative art initiative in two hospitals aims to enhance the well-being of patients and staff. The “take heART” project, launched by the Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, which manages Bedford and Luton & Dunstable Hospitals, seeks to increase access to the arts for patients, visitors, and staff.
Dr. Sheena McLaggan, a consultant radiologist at the Luton & Dunstable Hospital, said the project gave staff a sense of value and positively impacted patient care. “If staff are happy, you get better patient care,” she explained.
Founded by Dr. McLaggan and Dr. Rachel Chater, the art project started in July 2021 to connect the two hospitals, which merged into one trust in April 2019. Through the project, the number of artworks on the hospital walls has increased, with some pieces being created by staff, schoolchildren, and local artists in workshops. The Paintings in Hospitals charity has also loaned some works.
According to Dr. McLaggan, the art workshops have positively impacted staff morale. “It gives staff a sense of being valued, a sense of pride in the workplace, and fosters connection through workshops,” she said. “It can also bring distraction and joy.”
Dr. Chater added that staff and patients have enjoyed conversing about the artworks. “I recognize that hospital environments can be difficult places for staff and visitors, so our goal is to create a calming and uplifting environment,” she said. “The art provides staff a space to rest, pause, and reflect.”
Dr. McLaggan said that the workshops have been great for staff morale and have allowed staff to chat and smile with each other. “There’s such a demand for this type of initiative, it helps staff feel valued,” she added.
Dr. Chater states, “When caught up in the daily grind, this art project provides an opportunity to give something back. We hope it gives staff a reason to leave the ward and a space to rest and reflect.”
The “take heART” project has received positive feedback from staff and patients. Incorporating art into the hospital environment has helped to create a more welcoming and uplifting atmosphere and has provided a much-needed escape from the daily stresses of hospital life.
Not only does the project benefit staff and patients, but it also supports the local community by showcasing the work of local artists. The workshops have also allowed schoolchildren to express their creativity and learn more about the importance of art in healthcare.
The success of the “take heART” project highlights the importance of incorporating art into healthcare environments. Not only does it improve the patient experience, but it also has a positive impact on staff well-being and morale. The Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust should be commended for its efforts in creating a more holistic and healing environment for its patients and staff.
The “take heART” project serves as a model for other healthcare organizations looking to improve their environment and enhance the well-being of their patients and staff. Everyone can benefit from its positive effects by incorporating art and creativity into the hospital setting.