Dance for health programme to be offered

A PILOT dance for health programme will be offered for patients with chronic illness and/ or mobility issues.

Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Arts in Health Team have revealed the project, which will be prescribed to patients by the community multidisciplinary team in the Tywi Taf Together area, utilising GP cluster funding. The project will be delivered by a local experienced arts organisation with training in dance interventions for health and wellbeing.

The multidisciplinary team working with patients within the Tywi Taf Together cluster is well established and successful in identifying patients needing additional support. Often patients identified have co-morbidities, frailty, complex physical and emotional health needs, and social isolation.

Dance for health programmes have been evaluated and shown to improve strength and mobility and prevent falls. Positive social and psychological effects are also evident.

This project hopes to improve health and wellbeing, demonstrate a proactive and preventative approach to illness and encourage self-management of chronic conditions. Working together in an integrated way with patients, health care professionals and the community, this project aligns well with the Hywel dda health board’s strategy for a healthier Mid and West Wales.

Kerry Phillips, GP lead for the Tywi/taf cluster, said: “The cluster are delighted to work in collaboration on this project, providing fun and interactive sessions to improve health and well-being in the Tywi/taf area. This is an excellent addition to our range of projects, and we hope the population take advantage of the programme and experience the positive social and psychological benefits to be gained.”

The arts in health team hope to develop and grow the potential for arts on prescription across Hywel Dda, with the aim of addressing health inequalities and improving mental health and wellbeing for communities.

If you would like to find out more or get involved, please contact our Arts in Health Coordinators Kathryn.lambert@wales.nhs.uk or Catherine.jenkins5@wales.nhs.uk