Three artworks produced by individuals affected by cancer are now on display at the Macmillan Health and Wellbeing Campus at Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry/Londonderry, following a series of therapeutic workshops. The installations were unveiled during an event marking the culmination of several creative projects at the campus.

Western Trust Chief Executive Karen Hargan said the campus provides holistic services that nurture physical and emotional wellbeing. She credited the programme of workshops, volunteers and charity partners with helping people connect, rebuild confidence and support recovery.

Macmillan Campus Manager Lesley Finlay explained that the campus supports anyone impacted by cancer, including patients, loved ones, carers and the bereaved. Partner organisations have helped deliver workshops such as willow wreath-making, bird box decoration, flower arranging and a therapeutic photography programme run by the Bloom Project, St Columb’s Park House, John Paul Florist and Belfast Exposed.

Finlay said the value of creativity was first demonstrated by the Yarn Away crochet and knitting group. Made up of women with a cancer diagnosis, the group has met weekly at the campus for almost three years. They donate handmade items to the hospital, including blankets, fidget muffs for dementia patients, trauma teddies for children and angel gowns for babies born sleeping.

The three new artworks were created through workshops with Arts Care, an arts and health organisation, and funded by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group of the Department of Health. Arts Care Artistic and Operations Director Stephanie Stafford said the programme included cyanotype and photography workshops and a men’s art project, providing welcoming spaces where participants could learn new skills and build confidence.

One participant, Gary Taylor, made a piece called ‘Hope and Reflection’ from recycled aluminium street signs. Using assemblage, drilling and pop riveting, he shaped a flock of birds now displayed at the campus entrance. Taylor said the programme gave him a welcome distraction during a challenging time and allowed him to create something positive for others.

The event also recognised volunteer gardener Malachy, who maintains the campus garden, and volunteer Jeannie, who runs regular arts and crafts sessions. The campus plans further workshops in creative writing, music, circus skills, tile printing and a street art project.