It is intended to bring to light the scope, breadth and reach of the work that cultural and creative organisations and individuals have been doing since lockdown to reach the most vulnerable in our communities, and the immense creativity and care with which this work has been designed.

The majority of organisations have deployed a mixture of on and offline approaches. Some have worked only offline, recognising that vulnerability is often tied to lack of digital access. Offline work has varied from the targeted distribution of creative packs – usually in collaboration with local authority, NHS or community partners – to printable resources, phone calls and workshops, and creative exchanges by post. Online work has encompassed workshops, resources, exhibitions, performances, peer-support, social media, and much more.

The work in these case studies has been designed to tackle issues varying from stigma, to community relations, to slowing the impacts of dementia – but the vast majority is directly addressing loneliness and social isolation, and supporting wellbeing.

More information on the Culture, Health and Wellbeing Alliance

Culture, Health and Wellbeing Alliance. (2020). Short report: How creativity and culture has been supporting people who are shielding or vulnerable during Covid-19. Culture, Health and Wellbeing Alliance & Arts Council England.