Since 2021, the Watts Gallery Community Programme has been trialling and running social prescribing courses for adults in Surrey, who are experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety and loneliness. Social prescribing ‘is an approach that connects people to activities, groups, and services in their community to meet the practical, social and emotional needs that affect their health and wellbeing.’ - www.england.nhs.uk/personalisedcare/social-prescribing/

These 6-week Explore, Refresh, Express courses support participants to spend time in the galleries, chapel and woodlands at Watts Gallery and take inspiration from nature and the art around them. Using art and creativity, we are working to bring people together, and to provide safe, gentle and supportive Artist-lead sessions, to support wellbeing and mental health. The outcomes are particularly drawn from Mary Watt’s creative practice, and continues Mary and GF Watts’ belief that art had the power to provoke social change.

This programmed is delivered in partnership with Voluntary Action South West Surrey, who’s Sociabl Prescribing Link Workers refer participants to take part in the course, and Creative Minds, to appoint an artist who has the skills and experience to support adults with mental health needs.

For more information, contact the Watts Gallery’s Learning & Engagement team on learning@wattsgallery.org.uk