The Converge Evaluation and Research Team (CERT) was commissioned by the Igen Trust to evaluate the Arts Network, a project in South London providing arts opportunities to local people with severe and enduring mental health problems, including changes in self-reported use of NHS services.

The aim of this 2020 evaluation was to again gather the views and opinions of Arts Network members (the term for those who attend Arts Network) and staff. They interviewed 12 members and a group of staff over a 2-day period in February 2020. In addition, they had access to the results of the 2019 end of year survey conducted internally at Arts Network. A follow up survey created, and further questions for staff were delayed by the COVID-19 lockdown, meaning they did not have all of the data they hoped to obtain for this report.

The Converge Research and Evaluation Team (CERT) is a group of researchers with lived experience of mental health difficulties who have received training in research methods at York St John University.
More information on the Arts Network
More information on CERT at York St. John University.

CERT Converge Evaluation and Research Team (2021). The Arts Network Evaluation 2020. UK: CERT Converge Evaluation and Research Team.