Culture efforts hailed

Renfrewshire’s cultural contribution to the country has been praised in the Houses of Parliament.

Paisley and Renfrewshire North MP Gavin Newlands took part in a debate on the effects that the arts can have on a person’s health.

He spoke about the emphasis that the Paisley 2021 bid is placing on the role that culture can play in helping to regenerate parts of the town.

“The role of the arts and culture in our society is extremely important and wide- ranging, including helping to combat longstanding health inequalities,” said the SNP man.

“E x isting evidence confirms that the arts can combat a range of health problems, including mental health and loneliness.

“I was delighted to take part in this debate, stressing the positive relationship between the arts and good health and being able to highlight the range of Renfrewshirebased organisations which use culture to help produce positive health outcomes.

“Paisley is leading in this field and our bid to be named as the UK’s City of Culture is built on the belief that the arts can play a fundamental role in help to transform our town.

“From the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival, which is on at the moment, to projects like Buddy Beat and the Star Project — it’s clear that Renfrewshire is forward thinking in using culture to promote good health.“