Arts on Prescription
Arts on Prescription
Artist led courses for adults living with health challenges.
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, collage and simple sculpture.︎AoP Dance & Movement:
Our newest Arts on Prescription course for adults which involves dance and movement! Guided by professional dance artist Kate Taylor, she will lead 10 weekly gentle movement sessions bringing release for both body and mind to an uplifting playlist. No experience required.
“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: project
2025
Creative Play, is an
ongoing free weekly music session for mums who are 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.
What?
Facilitated by a trained musician, participants will engage in a range of singing and musical activities. There will be the opportunity to learn new musical and singing skills in a caring, safe and secure environment. The space will allow participants to find connections with other mums going through similar experiences and find a new community of acceptance and understanding. Bring your baby and be part of the musical magic of group singing, learn new songs that you can sing at home.
The sessions will consist of an hour of singing and music intervention. 15 minute stagger arrival and departure time and 30 minutes to chat and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and something sweet.
Who?
The sessions will be centred around mothers but encourages mothers to bring their babies and children under 5 to come along to the sessions.
When?
The sessions take place weekly on a Thursday, 12:30pm-2:30pm during term time.
Sessions start from Thursday 15th May.
Accepting new attendees at any point.
Where?
Sunshine’s Family Centre
Merebrook Infant School
Dulverton Drive
Furzton
Milton Keynes
MK4 1EZ
Tel: 01908 508566
Creative Play is funded by National Lottery Awards for All Fund
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Previous Delivery
This is the second phase of the Creative Play project. Last year two 12 week programmes were delivered in Family Centres around Milton Keynes. 100% of mothers, who participated said they experienced a positive change in their mood and outlook after taking part in one of the sessions.
︎ Follow the link to read some of the other benefits experienced.
Facilitated by a trained musician, participants will engage in a range of singing and musical activities. There will be the opportunity to learn new musical and singing skills in a caring, safe and secure environment. The space will allow participants to find connections with other mums going through similar experiences and find a new community of acceptance and understanding. Bring your baby and be part of the musical magic of group singing, learn new songs that you can sing at home.
The sessions will consist of an hour of singing and music intervention. 15 minute stagger arrival and departure time and 30 minutes to chat and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and something sweet.
Who?
The sessions will be centred around mothers but encourages mothers to bring their babies and children under 5 to come along to the sessions.
When?
The sessions take place weekly on a Thursday, 12:30pm-2:30pm during term time.
Sessions start from Thursday 15th May.
Accepting new attendees at any point.
Where?
Sunshine’s Family Centre
Merebrook Infant School
Dulverton Drive
Furzton
Milton Keynes
MK4 1EZ
Tel: 01908 508566
Creative Play is funded by National Lottery Awards for All Fund
Previous Delivery
This is the second phase of the Creative Play project. Last year two 12 week programmes were delivered in Family Centres around Milton Keynes. 100% of mothers, who participated said they experienced a positive change in their mood and outlook after taking part in one of the sessions.
︎ Follow the link to read some of the other benefits experienced.
Reguarly asked Q&A
Do I need to have a formal diagnosis of PND or other perinatal mental health challenges to attend?
No you do not need a formal diagnosis. If you are feeling any of the following symptoms:
- feeling sad, low in mood or tearful much of the time
- feeling agitated or irritable towards your partner, baby or other children
- loss of interest in the world around you and
- no longer enjoying things that used to give you pleasure (like you "cannot be bothered")
- lack of energy and feeling tired all the time
- problems concentrating and making decisions
- loss of appetite or overeating (comfort eating)
- negative thoughts such as feeling you are not a good enough mother,
- feelings of guilt, hopelessness and self-blame
- feeling anxious that something bad may happen to your baby
- problems bonding with your baby, no sense of enjoyment in being with them
We accept referrals from health care providers as well as self referrals.
Will there be facilities for my baby?
Yes, there are changing facilities and products will be available if you require them.
How will I be supported in the sessions?
There will be 1 trained musician running the sessions there will also be an additional member of the project team in the room to support you where needed. Family Centre staff will also be on hand to help where needed.
Can health care professionals refer individuals onto the programme?
Yes, we have referral partners but will also take referrals from other care professionals.
Can I refer myself onto the programme?
Yes you can.
Do I have to attend every session?
No, if you feel you cannot attend a session that is totally fine.
Do I need to have any musical experience to attend?
No you don’t need any previous experience.
Do I have to feel extremes in order to be accepted onto the programme?
No you don’t.
Will I need to fill in lots of paper work?
No, we will be asking some questions about yourself at the beginning, middle and end of the project but this paper work will be completed with support of a member of staff.
Are the workshops free to attend?
Yes, the workshops are free as this is a funded project. The project is funded by National Lottery Awards for All Fund.
For any further questions please email georgia@blacksheepcollective.co.uk
To register interest on the programme please click here to download and complete the referral form.
︎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
Do I need to have a formal diagnosis of PND or other perinatal mental health challenges to attend?
No you do not need a formal diagnosis. If you are feeling any of the following symptoms:
- feeling sad, low in mood or tearful much of the time
- feeling agitated or irritable towards your partner, baby or other children
- loss of interest in the world around you and
- no longer enjoying things that used to give you pleasure (like you "cannot be bothered")
- lack of energy and feeling tired all the time
- problems concentrating and making decisions
- loss of appetite or overeating (comfort eating)
- negative thoughts such as feeling you are not a good enough mother,
- feelings of guilt, hopelessness and self-blame
- feeling anxious that something bad may happen to your baby
- problems bonding with your baby, no sense of enjoyment in being with them
We accept referrals from health care providers as well as self referrals.
Will there be facilities for my baby?
Yes, there are changing facilities and products will be available if you require them.
How will I be supported in the sessions?
There will be 1 trained musician running the sessions there will also be an additional member of the project team in the room to support you where needed. Family Centre staff will also be on hand to help where needed.
Can health care professionals refer individuals onto the programme?
Yes, we have referral partners but will also take referrals from other care professionals.
Can I refer myself onto the programme?
Yes you can.
Do I have to attend every session?
No, if you feel you cannot attend a session that is totally fine.
Do I need to have any musical experience to attend?
No you don’t need any previous experience.
Do I have to feel extremes in order to be accepted onto the programme?
No you don’t.
Will I need to fill in lots of paper work?
No, we will be asking some questions about yourself at the beginning, middle and end of the project but this paper work will be completed with support of a member of staff.
Are the workshops free to attend?
Yes, the workshops are free as this is a funded project. The project is funded by National Lottery Awards for All Fund.
For any further questions please email georgia@blacksheepcollective.co.uk
To register interest on the programme please click here to download and complete the referral form.
︎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
Monday Art Group - Wolverton
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 Group is 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 2pm - 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:
Patrice Hosier - ‘still life’ - mixed media
Mary Tyers - ‘Fritillaria’ - water soluble coloured pencil
Marina Grainger - ‘Blue jay’ - pastels
Graham Jossling - ‘Pattern’ - biro and pencil
Lydia Isaac - ‘ Stained Glass ‘ - coloured pencil
Mark Eastburn - ‘Sunset over Abu Dhabi’ - felt tipped pen and watercolour
Jim 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 ︎︎︎
Saturday Art Club - Conniburrow
Looking for a way to boost your creativity and well-being? Join us for the Creative Space at Conniburrow Community Hub.
The Creative Space is not just about art; it’s about fostering a sense of community. These sessions are led by experienced artists and explore important themes like identity, inclusion, diversity, and geography, while also helping reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, express yourself artistically, or simply enjoy a mindful break from your week, this club is for you. Each session features a variety of activities designed to inspire creativity and improve mental well-being.
Who is it for?
This weekly art club offers a welcoming environment for people of all ages and abilities to engage in a wide range of creative activities.
Where and when?
Saturdays 10am - 12pm @ The Conniburrow Community Hub Annex, Conniburrow Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK14 7DX.
Cost
These sessions are free of charge.
How do I join?
- You are welcome to drop in, you do not need a referral.
- Please contact us on info@artsforhealthmk.org.uk or 01908 996124 for more information.
Gallery
Here are a selection of artworks produced by some of our participants:
Creative Space Poster:
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With thanks to the Great Linford Parish Council for their support with this project.
With thanks to the Great Linford Parish Council for their support with this 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 90 minute art workshops. Workshops are small groups of up to 12 young people and led by professional artists. Activities can include drawing and painting, collage, print-making and simple sculpture.
︎ HEADSTART Drama (ages 8 – 12) & (13 - 17)
Unfortunately we are not running any Headstart Drama courses currently.
︎ Find out more about our most recent drama courses here.
︎🎶️ HEADSTART Music (ages 8 – 12) & (13 - 17)
Unfortunately we are not running any Headstart Music courses currently.
︎ 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 quiz aimed 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 a HEADSTART Art programme.
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