PASW Regional Newsletter: Spring 2001
Regional Projects - The National Network for the Arts in Health
The National Network for the Arts in Health has officially launched. "Celebrating Arts in Health", held 26 October at Christ Church, Spitalfields brought together people from the broadest spectrum of arts in health to network, share information, and celebrate achievements in the field. A participant commented that the most useful aspect of the event was "meeting people and other people meeting other people."
Launch 'Celebrating Arts in Health' London October 2000
Various speakers took centre stage throughout the morning to emphasise the achievements in the visual, creative writing, dance and music in health. Speakers were followed by poetry readings, dance exercises and a special performance by Medina Beats, a mental health drumming group from the Isle of Wight. The presentations showcased a "very high standard of achievements,"and "a high level of commitment." Rabbi Julia Neuberger, Chief Executive of the King's Fund gave the keynote address and officially launched the National Network for the Arts in Health. One participant stated, "My confidence increased no end."
This was followed by a reception at the King's Fund for NHS Chairmen and Chief Executives, and leaders of arts, health and arts in health organisations. The Right Honourable Alan Howarth CBE MP delivered the keynote address and Catherine Yass, artist, offered a toast to NNAH.
The NNAH website was then relaunched on 27 October in response to user comment and demand. The information found on the site is now divided into a Public Forum and a Members' Forum. The Public Forum provides basic information for those interested in learning more about the field of arts in health. The Members' Forum gives more detailed information including full text articles and pictures. The website will be updated regularly.
All agree the week was exciting and informative and NNAH hopes to carry this enthusiasm forward in its future work.
Xanthe Phillips, Information Officer, The National Network for the ArtsInformation Officer, Tel: 020 7247 6015
Editor's note: The NNAH closed in May 2007 and the website is no longer operational.