In line with the NHS action plan to reduce inappropriate prescribing of high-strength painkillers, patients in Gloucestershire have been referred to creative activities such as dance and music.
In 2022-23, 96% of participants in Artlift’s Living Well with Chronic Pain creative programme reported a statistically meaningful improvement in general wellbeing. There was an average 16% increase in ability to self-manage pain. Over two years, 37% reported a decrease in GP attendance.
Sessions were co-produced with researchers, pain management specialists, NHS Gloucestershire ICB chronic pain managers and people with lived experience of chronic pain as part of NHS Gloucestershire’s Test and Learn Programme. Programmes include activities such as crafting, music, painting, creative writing, dance and puppet making. Patients can self-refer or be referred by any professional working with people with chronic pain.
For the full story of this initiative see our creative health review
