Train professional artists to work in difficult healthcare areas

<< Background >>Research has shown that the use of art is beneficial for long-term patients and people in difficult health-care situations. The use of different types of art (theatre, music, painting, narration etc) is proved to aid in emotional expression, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. Art provides a creative outlet, fostering a sense of control and empowerment amid health challenges. Moreover, engaging with art can stimulate cognitive functions, offering relief from pain and improving mood. Integrating art into healthcare environments promotes healing on multiple levels, supporting patients' journey towards recovery and resilience. However, there are not many artists that have the skills to use their art in such environments. Specialized training is crucial to effectively navigate the complexities of healthcare settings and cater to diverse patient needs. Additionally, understanding medical ethics and patient confidentiality is essential. Collaborating with healthcare professionals ensures art interventions align with therapeutic goals and adhere to safety protocols. With proper training and collaboration, artists can maximize the potential of art therapy to positively impact patients' experiences and outcomes.<< Objectives >>The primary objective of this project was to equip professional artists with the necessary skills and techniques to effectively utilize theater, performance, improvisation, music, and dance in challenging healthcare environments for the benefit of the patients. The focus was on empowering artists to engage with individuals in these settings, fostering motivation and providing support. The program targeted both seasoned artists from theater or music backgrounds and amateurs interested in working with vulnerable demographics. Its scope encompassed the integration of art into various healthcare settings such as care homes, hospitals, institutions, and clinics. The approach aimed to include diverse art forms, offering encouragement and guidance to participants, facilitating their active involvement in artistic activities. Rather than being passive spectators at performances or concerts, individuals were expected to interact with artists, actors, musicians, and facilitators, engaging in a collaborative learning process. The project also aimed to develop the cooperation between artists and institutions working with long-term patients in order to promote and mainstream the use of art in these environments.<< Implementation >>The activities of the project were divided in four distinct phases. The first phase involved the development of a comprehensive methodology, including practical implementation strategies and worksheets, for utilizing art in challenging healthcare environments. The methodology, which is translated in all partner languages, was the basis for the training of trainers which was organized in Cyprus in June 2023. These selected trainers played a pivotal role in disseminating the project's objectives and methodologies at the local level. The third phase was the organization of online and face-to-face training sessions for professional artists in each country as well as at an international level and they have involved more than 200 artists from different backgrounds. An e-learning course was also developed in order to support the asynchronous training on the methods. The last phase involved the implementation of the acquired knowledge and skills by the trained artists in hospitals, shelters, institutions, and similar settings. Specific evaluation criteria were developed to assess the effectiveness of the approach, ensuring that the project's objectives are met and that positive outcomes are achieved.<< Results >>The main result of the project was the development of a transferable methodology with clear guidelines, concrete actions and activities that can be replicable in different settings. Through the use of the methodology the following results were achieved: i) Increased skills of artists to work for the relief of people with difficult health situation, ii) Increased awareness of the psychological issues related with the work in such shelters. More than 300 artists were trained to work in difficult health situations while more than 500 people in difficult situations benefited from the project. Furthermore, the project developed an online training course (consisting of asynchronous eLearning materials and synchronous webinars) in order to develop the skills of artists in the field, case studies highlighting the benefits of the project in particular patients and an Impact Assessment Report describing the impact of the project to the beneficiaries and highlighting the challenges faced and the possibilities for upscaling. Furthermore, it developed a training of trainers’ event, a website that could be used a resource for guiding artists in several issues related with this target group, podcasts and live events involving members of the public.