The Manchester Museum and the Whitworth, part of the University of Manchester, and Manchester Art Gallery provide creative arts for health programmes for the local community through a varied programme of activities. In 2012 they were recognised by RSPH for outstanding and innovative contributions to Arts and Health research and practice with two awards. 
In recent years there has been growing evidence that supports the understanding of the impact of engaging in the arts can have on health and wellbeing. With growing conversation around the impact that social prescribing can have on our communities and healthcare systems, they are now inviting health and social care professionals, and associated service providers to make referrals to their health and wellbeing programmes.
The programmes are led by artists, practitioners and specialists who have a wide range of experience in working with varied audiences. Accessing culture and the arts can support positive health and wellbeing.
Each programme seeks to combat social isolation, foster creative learning, improve personal health and happiness, focus on individuals beyond any health problems or learning needs, initiate long-term engagement with culture and the arts, and to support creative activity, inspiration and stimulation.
The programme includes:
• Coffee, Cake and Culture – Making culture accessible for anyone living with a physical or mental health need
• Creative Writing for Carers – Be kind to yourself. Take a break.
• Muso Baby – A friendly, interactive music session for parents and children run by music therapist, Rachel Swanick
• HANDMADE – Sociable craft workshops for adults aged 50+
• GROW – GROW is a project that promotes the benefits of engaging in horticultural activities to improve mental wellbeing of an individual
• See, Make & Do: Autism Friendly Early Openings – Join early openings at the Museum aimed at children aged 5-16 who have autism or other needs, along with their families and carers, and siblings
• Volunteering for Wellbeing – The Whitworth has been a part of Inspiring Futures: Volunteering for Wellbeing project since their reopening in 2015 and has continued to draw on their extensive experience of delivering a socially engaged volunteer programme
• Take Notice – Explore art with mindfulness
• Mindful Marks: De-stress and Draw – Drop in and join artist Naomi Kendrick to find your flow in these mindful mark-making workshops
• Mossa Movements – Monthly inclusive dance workshop for children with additional needs
• Open Doors – A monthly session at Manchester Art Gallery for autistic children and their families
For the dates and venues of the events, see the attached programme.