The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has started an Art for Wellbeing programme at Cloughey Bowling Club in County Down. Participants engage in art workshops to connect with others and learn new skills.

Full-time carer Sarah Cairns takes part in the sessions. She stated that the workshops allow her time to practice arts and crafts, provide tips from artists, benefit her mental health, and help her form friendships.

Senior Social Work Practitioner Hannah Roach oversees the programme alongside the GP Federation and Arts Care. Roach noted that participants live on the local Peninsula, an area where loneliness and isolation occur. The initiative helps people build connections and acquire skills in a relaxed setting.

Roach added that arts engagement lowers stress levels and reduces physical pain by more than 20 percent.

Participant Colin Gracey attends the sessions. He mentioned enjoying the opportunity to create art, supplied with paints and materials, and making personalised cards. Gracey described the club as a place for coffee and conversation.