By KLTV Newsdesk –

Two-year programme aims to tackle health inequalities through art, music and community projects

A new two-year programme designed to improve health through creativity is set to launch across West Yorkshire this spring, it has been announced.

Speaking at a conference in Bradford today (11 February), West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said the initiative would be a “win-win” for the region — improving health outcomes while helping to cut NHS waiting lists by preventing illness rather than simply treating it.

Creativity at the Heart of Prevention

The programme centres on what’s described as ‘Creative Health’ measures, including activities such as art, writing, music, dancing, gardening and other nature-based projects that support both mental and physical wellbeing.

Research shows that providing people with creative spaces to express themselves, connect with others and develop coping skills can reduce stress and loneliness.

Such activities can also help individuals manage illness and life’s challenges before problems escalate, easing pressure on frontline services.

By embedding creative and cultural activities into routine prevention and wellbeing support in local communities, the scheme is expected to benefit thousands of residents — particularly those facing health inequalities, living with long-term conditions, or experiencing higher levels of deprivation.

£500,000 Backing and Regional Partnership

The initiative is backed by £500,000 from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and will be co-ordinated by the National Creative Health Hub at the University of Huddersfield.

It brings together partners from the NHS, local authorities, universities, the voluntary sector and cultural organisations.

The focus will be on delivering long-term change, including developing workforce skills, improving referral pathways, strengthening the evidence base for Creative Health interventions, and securing further investment into the sector across the region.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “While health inequalities continue to hold too many people back across our region, culture and creativity have the power to improve health and wellbeing, and bring our communities together.

“This programme is a win-win for West Yorkshire – it will boost the health of our communities and bolster our frontline health services, by backing the shift from treatment to prevention in the NHS.

“We’re investing in this trailblazing programme to help more people benefit from life-changing creative opportunities in a brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.”

Building a System That Lasts

Professor Rowan Bailey, Director of the National Creative Health Hub at the University of Huddersfield, emphasised the importance of collaboration across the region.

“This approach provides regional coordination and shared learning across Creative Health, while ensuring delivery remains responsive to the strengths, needs and lived experiences of each place.

“We are looking forward to working with communities across West Yorkshire to help make Creative Health accessible in local neighbourhoods”.

David McQuillan, consortium partner and Arts and Health Programme Manager at South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said the breadth of support demonstrated the region’s commitment.

“The strength of this consortium shows how seriously we take Creative Health in West Yorkshire.

“By bringing culture, communities, health, universities and local authorities together with voices of lived experience, we can build a system that lasts; one that’s meaningful to local people, reduces inequalities and improves wellbeing across the region.”

Regional Network to Shape the Future

As part of the programme, a new regional membership network will be launched, bringing together organisations and practitioners shaping the future of Creative Health in West Yorkshire.

The scheme builds on existing place-based work and reflects the region’s growing reputation for linking culture, health and community development.

For details on how to get involved, and to join the network, contact: creativehealthhub@hud.ac.uk.