World Mental Health Day (WMHS) was created by the World Federation of Mental Health and is marked on October 10 every year. It’s a day to unite in our efforts to improve the mental health of people around the world through health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma.
In 2023 the Trust’s Communications Team planned to mark WMHD with a Great Humber Craft Off. Patients and staff across the Trust were invited to design a section of bunting to create a unique piece of artwork for public display.
Health Stars funded the craft packs and worked in partnership with ScrapStore Hull, a registered charity and shop providing creative art and craft resources for children and young people, to make the event possible. Packs were delivered to 14 inpatient mental health and learning disability units on WMHD to provide the resources for people to take part in the activity.
“The health benefits of participatory arts are widely recognised, with a growing evidence base, said Rachel Kirby, Deputy Director of Communications & Charitable Funds. “Research shows that engagement with arts and crafts may reduce anxiety and stress reactions and can be used directly to improve clinical outcomes”.
Local schools including Beverley High School, Sirius Academy and Frederick Holmes took part in the activity, creating designs inspired by what mental health means to them, how it impacts their life, self-care ideas or an expression of how they are feeling right now.
Bunting designs provided an inspiring decorative feature at our Annual Members Meeting on Wednesday 18 October 2023. A public and staff winner was chosen and received vouchers as their prize.
Get involved!
If you want to know how you can help fund further art and craft events such as this across our Trust, please visit our Get Involved page.
