Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity has become a member of the National Arts in Hospitals Network (NAHN) in an effort to integrate the arts into its hospitals.

After a series of successful visual arts implementations, the charity aims to continue providing bespoke, therapeutic artwork across Alexandra, Kidderminster, and Worcestershire Royal Hospitals.

Previous projects have included colourful installations in the Emergency Department (ED) at Worcestershire Royal Hospital with distinct art forms for different spaces.

Children's sections have bright, attractive art, while the adult ED features familiar local landscapes.

Mental health assessment rooms have transformed into serene spaces with murals and wood-effect panels, reducing the clinical feel of the room and facilitating better communication.

An inviting mural by Emily Kaye Illustration at the entrance signals a warm welcome to all community members. Artwork in the Acute Frailty Unit has been tailor-made for older patients Corridors frequented by patients feature views of train window scenes painted to pique interest and foster longer physical activity.

Similarly, bays have domestic window views painted to evoke a homely and comforting feel. Moreover, patient areas prone to induce stress have been redesigned to create a calmer environment.

Sophie Burt, the Charity’s head of fundraising and community development, said: "As a charity we are pleased to join NAHN. 

"Being in hospital can be a difficult and stressful time for patients and their loved ones, and being able to make the experience that bit easier for everyone using or providing services is at heart of what we do.

"Bespoke, high-quality and inclusive art of all forms will contribute to the wellbeing of hospital patients and staff, as well as directly influence cooperation with care and the ability of patients to take in important information."

Projects in the pipeline include implementing therapeutic art in the Endoscopy Department at Kidderminster Hospital for distraction during procedures and expanding art projects to the older theatre complex at the Alexandra Hospital.

To learn more about Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity or support their cause, visit www.wahcharity.org or www.wahcharity.org/donate.

The integration of visual arts into a clinical setting aims to enhance patient experience, serve as a recovery aid, reduce stress, and promote wellbeing.