Reimagining systems: mobilising the creative arts for healthier lives

The Derry and Strabane Healthy City and District Conference 2024, held at The Guildhall on 4 September, was a remarkable success. Bringing together health professionals, policymakers, and community leaders, the conference focused on the transformative potential of creative arts in health care. It highlighted the growing evidence supporting the integration of creative arts into healthcare systems, demonstrating its profound impact on mental and physical well-being.

The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Prof Roger O’Sullivan from the Institute of Public Health, Julie McCarthy, Strategic Lead for Manchester Creative City, and Dan Hopewell, Director of Knowledge and Innovation at Bromley-by-Bow Health Partnership. Each speaker provided valuable insights into innovative programs and shared best practices for aligning creative arts with health improvement strategies. Click the following link to see the findings from the Northern Ireland Creative Network.

Local success stories were also celebrated, showcasing how creative health programs in Derry and Strabane are making a tangible difference in the lives of residents. The conference concluded with a shared vision of Derry City and Strabane becoming a Creative Healthy City and District, where the arts play a key role in promoting well-being. The event fostered meaningful dialogue and established new partnerships, positioning the region as a leader in creative health initiatives.

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Molly McFadden (mollymcfaddenart@gmail.com), a talented sketch artist, beautifully captured the day’s events through her unique artistic lens. Her work creatively illustrated key moments, bringing the energy and atmosphere of the conference to life in a visually engaging and memorable way.

Each initiative demonstrates how the arts can transform lives, offering emotional support, enhancing mental health, and fostering a sense of community. These videos highlight the dedication of local organisations in harnessing the power of creativity to promote healing, connection, and well-being across diverse groups in the region.