Reports on a pilot strategic Arts and Health Co-ordinator operating within a health board and evaluates qualitative, changes resultant from the post.

Arts and health actions were expected to lead to wider participation; a greater profile for the arts, and an understanding of their impacts by a wider audience, and for greater demand for creative opportunities. Health outcomes expected were: faster and more lasting rehabilitation; improved wellbeing during care, and better staff morale, leading to higher standards of care and lower turnover.

The post had immediate impacts on integrating art into new buildings, awareness raising (amongst partners, senior and other staff), access to funding, and network development.

Hall Aitken. Catalysing arts and health: Evaluation of strategic arts and health co-ordination post, full report. (2008). Edinburgh: Scottish Arts Council.