This interim policy document reports on an on-going study, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). The study addresses the following question: ‘Cultural institutions as social prescribing venues to improve older people’s well-being in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: What works, for whom, in what circumstances and why?’ The 12-month project, due to be completed later in 2021, consists of a literature review, interviews with older people and with cultural sector staff, and a questionnaire that has been completed by social prescribing link workers.

A literature review highlighted the importance of ‘tailoring’ from link workers and cultural sector staff. This involves adaptation and flexibility (and adequate resources) to meet the diverse needs of older people, who will have differing expectations and investment in cultural offerings.

The literature review showed that the following benefits might transpire for an older person engaging with a cultural offering:

• Distraction from daily concerns
• Psychologically held in a space where they felt safe and valued and respected
• Connecting them to new social networks
• Transforming how people saw themselves and their place in the world

Stakeholder meetings took place in February 2021 with UK and international colleagues from the cultural sector, link workers and older people. Discussions covered:

• Adaptability and innovation
• Co-production
• Relationships
• Creating safe and welcoming spaces
• Online/digital provision
• Funding/resources

Interviews are ongoing with older people, cultural sector staff, and a questionnaire with link workers.

A final report will follow once the project is completed.

Mahtani, K., Tierney, S. et al (2021) How can the cultural sector support older people’s well-being as part of social prescribing within the context of a pandemic? Interim results from a multi-methods study. Oxford: Oxford Social Prescribing Research Network