Arts on Prescription
Arts on Prescription
Artist led courses for adults living with health challenge.
What is Arts on Prescription?
FREE arts workshops aimed to improve health and wellbeing.
Our Arts on Prescription programme offers local access to high quality professionally led arts activities in a low stress, supportive environment, free of charge to participants at times and places to suit them. Through focusing on hands-on art activities we provide relaxation and distraction, giving participants personal space away from day to day life.
How can Arts on Prescription help?
- Increased confidence
- Learning new skills
- Distraction from pain and problems
- Having something enjoyable to do
- Making friends
We currently offer the following Programmes:
︎AoP Art:
Each programme is made up of 12 weekly 2 hour art workshops. Workshops are small groups of up to 12 people led by professional artists and usually take place in local arts centres. Activities include drawing and painting, print-making and simple sculpture.︎AoP Music:
This Mindfulness Music programme is made up of 10 weekly 2 hour music workshops, with the option to continue subject to availability. Aimed at everybody from the experienced musician to those with little or no experience. The programme is supported by the MK’s Music Faculty and Music Education Hub. Workshops are small groups of up to 8 people and led by professional artists.︎AoP Dance & Movement:
We are running the new kind of Arts on Prescription course for adults which involves dance and movement! Following the success of our Autumn course last year, we have scheduled a new 10 week course starting in the Spring! Guided by professional dance artist Kate Taylor, she will lead gentle movement sessions bringing release for both body and mind to an uplifting playlist. No experience needed.
“It helps me mentally, I really enjoy it, it releases those ‘good’ endorphins.
With the class participants and Kate, there’s an energy in the room all the time,
which you in can't really see, but you can feel it. You might come into the class
in a low mood, and by the time you’re leaving, your mood is lifted, and this carries
on throughout the day.
For me personally my head doing all sorts often, it’s been a way of letting things
out through the movement, it’s given me freedom, it’s made me happier. I would
do it again in a heartbeat.” Carol Monk, AoP Dance participant
“It helps me mentally, I really enjoy it, it releases those ‘good’ endorphins.
With the class participants and Kate, there’s an energy in the room all the time,
which you in can't really see, but you can feel it. You might come into the class
in a low mood, and by the time you’re leaving, your mood is lifted, and this carries
on throughout the day.
For me personally my head doing all sorts often, it’s been a way of letting things
out through the movement, it’s given me freedom, it’s made me happier. I would
do it again in a heartbeat.” Carol Monk, AoP Dance participant
Location:
All of our Arts on Prescription Programmes are delivered face-to-face at a local arts venue.
Good to know...
All sessions are friendly and welcoming, and no previous arts experience is necessary.
In the workshops we don’t ask you to talk about why you are attending but you will be required to complete an evaluation survey aimed at measuring the health benefits of participating.
How can I take part?
Arts on Prescription is available on a referral basis for clients with depression, stress and anxiety. You can ask your GP, a community support worker or health care provider if they think it would benefit you. They will need to complete a referral form with you. You can also refer yourself directly if you wish. Simply complete the form and return to us.
Referral Forms:
For a referral form please download the form below:
Referral Form Word.doc
or contact us on:
︎ referrals@artsforhealthmk.org.uk.
︎ or 01908 996125
︎Looking for Activities to try at home whilst we process your referral?
Have you tried our online activities yet? There is plenty to explore from home including photography ideas, painting tips and music to listen to. Explore here
Other Current Activities:
Creative Play: music and song
Creative Play: Music & Song project
2023/4
Creative Play was two 12 weekly music sessions for
mothers who were experiencing early/moderate symptoms of post natal depression.
Some of these symptoms included: feeling
low, struggling with the pressures of being a mum, feeling anxious and/or
easily overwhelmed. For those who have lost interest in the world around them,
or who have feelings of guilt, hopelessness and self-blame.
Where?
The sessions took place in two children’s centres in Milton Keynes; The Robin’s Children’s Centre, Heelands and Little Owls Children Centre, Oxley Park.
Both spaces offered a welcoming environment for mothers and babies to feel comfortable and engage in the sessions.
What?
Over the 12 sessions a team of trained musicians supported participants to engage in singing and musical activities. They had the opportunity to learn new musical and singing skills in a caring, safe and secure environment. The sessions allowed participants to find connections with other mums going through similar experiences and find a new community of acceptance and understanding. The mothers were invited to bring their babies and children to be part of the musical activity but it was very clear from the beginning the activity was centred around the mother and an opportunity to support them.
The sessions consisted of an hour of singing and music intervention, 15 minute staggered arrival and departure time and 30 minutes to chat and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and something sweet. We also implemented an open door policy where mothers could come and go when they pleased without pressure or judgement.
Outcomes:
Over the project we supported 13 mothers and their children and babies. Each mother attended the sessions for their own reasons.
We produced a short video of our work on the project, and you will hear feedback from the participants and project manager about attending these uplifting sessions:
Both groups worked towards writing their own songs that depicted their feelings and aspirations, 'Shine' and 'Hope'.
LYRICS - SHINE:
Give me time to dream,
time to dance,
time to heal.
Light blue open skies,
hummingbirds
yellow sun.
The door is always open,
Go and return,
Here at the centre
Go and return.
See yourself again,
time to sit,
time to learn,
Hear the wind through trees
laughing more
worry less
I am free to find adventure
new horizons there for me
Ready for a new adventure
Home is here
Home is here inside of me
LYRICS - HOPE:
Angels looking down on a new day
Hope is in the dusk
Little flowers blooming
Look, love is blooming, wo-oh
Stillness in the air, sparkling water
Summer evening rays
Letting go of yesterday
The unknown of a bright new day, wo-oh
Pre-chorus
Watch the world…..golden, golden
World asleep…..quiet, quiet
Watch the world…..golden, golden
Letting go…….
Chorus
It’ll be alright, you are not alone
Be at ease with yourself, be your own friend
Let the fire inside you burn brighter than around
Keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground.
Repeat pre-chorus
Repeat Verse 1
Summer Celebration
These songs were performed at our Summer Celebration that took place at the end of July. We invited stakeholders, the musicians and participants to come together and recreate the harmonious feelings of the room and celebrate the incredible outcomes the project achieved. Some of these outcomes included friendship building, new found confidence, ways to cope and support oneself when mental health challenges arise. Through ongoing reflection and check in’s the participants identified the sessions as being a ‘breath of fresh air’, ‘an anchor in their week, something they looked forward to’.
The sessions took place in two children’s centres in Milton Keynes; The Robin’s Children’s Centre, Heelands and Little Owls Children Centre, Oxley Park.
Both spaces offered a welcoming environment for mothers and babies to feel comfortable and engage in the sessions.
What?
Over the 12 sessions a team of trained musicians supported participants to engage in singing and musical activities. They had the opportunity to learn new musical and singing skills in a caring, safe and secure environment. The sessions allowed participants to find connections with other mums going through similar experiences and find a new community of acceptance and understanding. The mothers were invited to bring their babies and children to be part of the musical activity but it was very clear from the beginning the activity was centred around the mother and an opportunity to support them.
The sessions consisted of an hour of singing and music intervention, 15 minute staggered arrival and departure time and 30 minutes to chat and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and something sweet. We also implemented an open door policy where mothers could come and go when they pleased without pressure or judgement.
Outcomes:
Over the project we supported 13 mothers and their children and babies. Each mother attended the sessions for their own reasons.
We produced a short video of our work on the project, and you will hear feedback from the participants and project manager about attending these uplifting sessions:
Both groups worked towards writing their own songs that depicted their feelings and aspirations, 'Shine' and 'Hope'.
LYRICS - SHINE:
Give me time to dream,
time to dance,
time to heal.
Light blue open skies,
hummingbirds
yellow sun.
The door is always open,
Go and return,
Here at the centre
Go and return.
See yourself again,
time to sit,
time to learn,
Hear the wind through trees
laughing more
worry less
I am free to find adventure
new horizons there for me
Ready for a new adventure
Home is here
Home is here inside of me
LYRICS - HOPE:
Angels looking down on a new day
Hope is in the dusk
Little flowers blooming
Look, love is blooming, wo-oh
Stillness in the air, sparkling water
Summer evening rays
Letting go of yesterday
The unknown of a bright new day, wo-oh
Pre-chorus
Watch the world…..golden, golden
World asleep…..quiet, quiet
Watch the world…..golden, golden
Letting go…….
Chorus
It’ll be alright, you are not alone
Be at ease with yourself, be your own friend
Let the fire inside you burn brighter than around
Keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground.
Repeat pre-chorus
Repeat Verse 1
Summer Celebration
These songs were performed at our Summer Celebration that took place at the end of July. We invited stakeholders, the musicians and participants to come together and recreate the harmonious feelings of the room and celebrate the incredible outcomes the project achieved. Some of these outcomes included friendship building, new found confidence, ways to cope and support oneself when mental health challenges arise. Through ongoing reflection and check in’s the participants identified the sessions as being a ‘breath of fresh air’, ‘an anchor in their week, something they looked forward to’.
Participant feedback about
the programme: “I gained new friendships and a new found confidence. The
sessions were my happy play where I felt listened to. I could share my emotions
and how I was feeling that day. I left feeling productive which helped me take
on the rest of the day.”
Musician feedback about the programme: “I found delivering on this project to be extremely rewarding. From getting to know my fellow facilitators, to building relationships with our participants, it was an exceedingly enjoyable engagement.”
Project Manager, Georgia Tillery Randak feedback: ‘The Creative Play project was a pleasure to work on. I felt that my new found identity as a mother really helped and supported the work. I also found myself really needing the sessions myself at times and felt the benefits of the engagement in my own home life.’
The project was funded by Youth Music: Trailblazer Fund.
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︎Looking for Activities to try at home whilst we process your referral?
Have you tried our online activities yet? There is plenty to explore from home including photography ideas, painting tips and music to listen to. Explore here
Musician feedback about the programme: “I found delivering on this project to be extremely rewarding. From getting to know my fellow facilitators, to building relationships with our participants, it was an exceedingly enjoyable engagement.”
Project Manager, Georgia Tillery Randak feedback: ‘The Creative Play project was a pleasure to work on. I felt that my new found identity as a mother really helped and supported the work. I also found myself really needing the sessions myself at times and felt the benefits of the engagement in my own home life.’
The project was funded by Youth Music: Trailblazer Fund.
︎Looking for Activities to try at home whilst we process your referral?
Have you tried our online activities yet? There is plenty to explore from home including photography ideas, painting tips and music to listen to. Explore here
Art Group
A space to develop your creativity and meet new people. Join us for 2 hours of ‘me time’ for you and your art. Our group is supportive and sociable.
Who is it for?
Our Art Groups are for adults with mild to moderate physical and/or mental health challenges. You will not need to complete a referral form.
Unlike our Arts on Prescription course, Art Group sessions are not taught. You can choose your own art projects and a member of staff is always on hand if you need inspiration or help using materials. Basic materials are provided.
Where and when?
Mondays 2 - 4pm @ The Old Bath House, Wolverton
Cost
£2 per 2 hour session - this nominal fee includes the use of art materials and refreshments.
How do I join?
- Please contact us on info@artsforhealthmk.org.uk or 01908 996124 for more information.
- You are welcome to drop in, you do not need a referral.
Gallery
Here are a selection of artworks produced by some of our members:
Above Left to right:
Marina Grainger - ‘Cardinal birds male and female’ - coloured pencils
Angela Finn - ‘Splash of Pink’ - watercolour
Marina Grainger - ‘Blue jay’ - pastels
Iain Stirling - ‘Kingfisher’ - acrylic
Graham Jossling - ‘Pattern’ - biro and pencil
Lydia Isaac - ‘ Stained Glass ‘ - coloured pencil Mark Eastburn - ‘Sunset over Abu Dhabi’ - felt tipped pen and watercolourJim Bogle - ‘Fairy Pool - Skye’ - water soluble coloured pencil
Art Group Flyer to Share:
With thanks to the Wolverton Science and Art Institute Fund for their support with this ongoing project.
Other current activities ︎︎︎
HEADSTAR
HEADSTART
An Arts on Prescription programme for children and young people aged 8 - 17 years
What is HEADSTART?
Using art to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people who experience health challenges such as: stress, anxiety, depression or pain.
HEADSTART is an Arts on Prescription programme that offers young people access to high quality multiple arts workshops in a low stress, supportive environment. Through focused hands-on activities we provide relaxation and distraction, giving participants personal space away from day to day life.
How can HEADSTART programmes help?
- Increasing confidence
-
Learning new skills
-
Distraction from pain and problems
-
Spending time doing something enjoyable
- Making friends
We currently offer the following Programmes:
︎HEADSTART Art (ages 8 - 12) & (13 – 17)
This programme provides up to 12 weekly 1.5 hour art workshops. Workshops are small groups of up to 10 young people and led by professional artists. Activities can include drawing and painting, print-making and simple sculpture.
Headstart Art
(12 weeks)
Starting Tuesday 10th September
(ages 13 - 17)
5pm - 6.30pm
FREE OF CHARGE
Course dates:
10, 17, 24 September
1, 8, 15, 22 October
29 October (Half Term break)
5, 12, 19, 26 November
3 December
Location: The Mead Centre, 75 High Street, Newport Pagnell, Mlton Keynes MK16 8AB.
The 12 spaces available have now all been booked.
To go on the wait list contact: naomi@artsforhealthmk.org.uk
(12 weeks)
Starting Tuesday 10th September
(ages 13 - 17)
5pm - 6.30pm
FREE OF CHARGE
Course dates:
10, 17, 24 September
1, 8, 15, 22 October
29 October (Half Term break)
5, 12, 19, 26 November
3 December
Location: The Mead Centre, 75 High Street, Newport Pagnell, Mlton Keynes MK16 8AB.
The 12 spaces available have now all been booked.
To go on the wait list contact: naomi@artsforhealthmk.org.uk
︎ HEADSTART Drama (ages 8 – 12) & (13 - 17)
During our 12 week course young people will learn and explore drama skills that will encourage independent creativity, building confidence and self esteem. The aim of this programme is to support the group to create a piece of drama; the form, style and subject matter of the piece will be inspired by the young people themselves. Participants will be encouraged to take creative lead on the project, making it relevant and relatable to the young people and their current experiences and opinions.
Headstart Drama
(7 weeks)
Starting Tuesday 10th September
(ages 13 - 17)
5pm - 6.30pm
FREE OF CHARGE
Course dates:
10, 17, 24 September
1, 8, 15, 22 October
Location: The Old Bath House, 205 Stratford Rd, Wolverton, Milton Keynes MK12 5RL.
There are still spaces available on this course.
If interested please contact: referrals@artsforhealthmk.org.uk
(7 weeks)
Starting Tuesday 10th September
(ages 13 - 17)
5pm - 6.30pm
FREE OF CHARGE
Course dates:
10, 17, 24 September
1, 8, 15, 22 October
Location: The Old Bath House, 205 Stratford Rd, Wolverton, Milton Keynes MK12 5RL.
There are still spaces available on this course.
If interested please contact: referrals@artsforhealthmk.org.uk
Headstart Half Term Drama is an opportunity for 8 - 12 year olds
to learn new drama skills in an open and unpressured environment. Over
this four day course the young people will be able to create their own scenes
and sketches, come up with creative ideas and build confidence to work together. A perfect way to connect with other young people who may be feeling the same, anxious or nervous. They will be working with a
professional theatre director to release their performance potential. No
previous experience required, designed to support young people with mental
health challenges.
Headstart Half Term Drama
(4 days)
FREE OF CHARGE
Ages 8 - 12 years
Starting Monday 28th October
Finishing Thursday 31st October
10am - 2pm
Location: Wolverton Workingmen’s Social Club,
49-50 Stratford Road, Milton Keynes MK12 5LS
There are 20 spaces available.
To book please contact: naomi@artsforhealthmk.org.uk
(4 days)
FREE OF CHARGE
Ages 8 - 12 years
Starting Monday 28th October
Finishing Thursday 31st October
10am - 2pm
Location: Wolverton Workingmen’s Social Club,
49-50 Stratford Road, Milton Keynes MK12 5LS
There are 20 spaces available.
To book please contact: naomi@artsforhealthmk.org.uk
︎ Find out more about our most recent drama courses here.
︎🎶️ HEADSTART Music (ages 8 – 12) & (13 - 17)
During this 12 week course we will focus primarily on musical creativity in the form of songwriting. Participants will be able to contribute by creating lyrics, melodies, rhythms and chord sequences. There will be opportunities for participants to share original ideas that could be brought to life in the group setting.
The aim is to collaborate then create and record a track everyone can take home as an MP3. We will have a small studio set up where we can record and edit sounds. We will use drums as an initial point for group improvisation and performance; then we will give structure to our performances for a potential showcase at the end of the course. We will listen to familiar songs and play along with them.
Headstart Music (11 weeks)
(8 -12 years old)
Starting 1st October 2024
6pm - 7.30pm
FREE OF CHARGE
Course dates:
1, 8 , 15 , 22 October
29 October - Half Term break
5, 12, 19, 26 November
3, 10 & 17 December
Location: Brooklands Pavilion,
Countess Way, Broughton, Milton Keynes, MK10 7HN
There are 2 spaces remaining on a first come, first served basis.
If interested please contact: naomi@artsforhealthmk.org.uk
(8 -12 years old)
Starting 1st October 2024
6pm - 7.30pm
FREE OF CHARGE
Course dates:
1, 8 , 15 , 22 October
29 October - Half Term break
5, 12, 19, 26 November
3, 10 & 17 December
Location: Brooklands Pavilion,
Countess Way, Broughton, Milton Keynes, MK10 7HN
There are 2 spaces remaining on a first come, first served basis.
If interested please contact: naomi@artsforhealthmk.org.uk
︎ Find out more about our most recent music courses here.
Good to know...
All workshops are FREE of charge and all materials are provided. Sessions are friendly and welcoming, and no previous arts/music/drama experience is necessary. In the workshops we do not ask you to talk about why you are attending, but you will be asked to complete an online mood quizaimed at measuring the health benefits of participating.
How can a young person take part?
All HEADSTART programmes are available on a referral basis for young people who experience depression, stress, anxiety and/or pain. You can ask your GP, a support worker or health care provider if they think it would benefit you.
You can also refer your young person directly if you wish. Simply complete the form and return to us.
Referral Forms:
For a referral form please download the form below:
Referral Form Word.doc
or contact us on:
︎ referrals@artsforhealthmk.org.uk.
︎ 01908 996124
What happens?
When we receive your referral we will contact you and invite you to attend one of our HEADSTART programmes.
HEADSTART Gallery of Recent Artworks
︎Looking for Activities to try at home whilst we process your referral?
Have you tried our online activities yet? There is plenty to explore from home including photography ideas, painting tips and music to listen to. Explore here
Headstart is funded by Big Lottery Community Fund
Office
Arts for Health Milton Keynes
Facilities Directorate
Milton Keynes Hospital
Standing Way
Eaglestone
Milton Keynes
MK6 5LD
Privacy Policy
Arts for Health Milton Keynes
Facilities Directorate
Milton Keynes Hospital
Standing Way
Eaglestone
Milton Keynes
MK6 5LD
Privacy Policy
Arts for Health Milton Keynes is the working name of MK Arts for Health charity number 1107625 company number 05137693