• The dlr (Dun Laoghaire Rathdown) Social Prescribing Programme for Health & Well-Being in collaboration with dlr Libraries continued from 2022, invited people to join them for a Libraries & Community Creative Cafés.The aim of this targeted programme for people with disabilities is to help improve the mental health and well-being of participants and reduce the sense of isolation often felt by such vulnerable groups in our society. Weekly taster sessions on various activities were held followed by a friendly and relaxed cup of tea.

• In November 2023, Cork County Council launched an ‘Arts and Chats’ Project to tackle social isolation and offer people dealing with social isolation the chance to discover new hobbies and meet new people. Workshops will offer a broad range of creative activities programmed from traditional crafts, arts, to music and dance, with a focus on celebrating local cultural heritage and traditions.
• Donegal County Council held up to 16 events throughout the county where social prescribing link workers entwined creativity into their wellbeing programmes in a client centered approach. Connecting with the sea, creativity, explore food, storytelling and gardening were all explored. Personal development was a key aspect of the programmes being designed to help build confidence, communication and through creativity, encourage a different outlook on situations.

• Kerry County Council’s “You, Me, Creativity” Social Prescribing project was delivered through 4 Family Resource Centres in Kerry. The community will be a more inclusive place with all welcomed with an ethos of “Art is for everyone”. Social Prescribing Link Workers reported that this project has given an excellent opportunity to have increased referral options for clients – tailored to support expression, connection and a belief in themselves as creatives, thereby increasing feelings of wellbeing & health.

• Family Life Services in Mayo committed to enhancing lives through arts-based Social Prescribing, continued their Flourish Creative Café and the soulful John Hoban Music Circle as part of their social prescribing imitative to support self-discovery and community connection through our diverse and creative activities. With a focus on inclusivity, wellbeing, and community engagement, Flourish brings the transformative power of creativity to every doorstep. Participants can explore the joy of Creative Writing, Willow Weaving, and more, fostering connections that last a lifetime.

• Roscommon County Council led a Creative Introductions Programme where clients were offered introductory creative experiences mainly at a number of Creative Cafés/Hubs including creative writing courses, book clubs, social storytelling, visual art & craft, choirs and other creative disciplines with a social theme for different age groups. Support was also offered to cover the cost of journeys to, attendances at and the odd cuppa at selected cultural and creative events approached by the Social Prescribing Link Worker such as Arts Centres, Historical & Heritage Venues, Walking Festivals, Art Classes, Writing Classes, Coding Classes, Youth Theatre/Dance Events.

• In Tipperary, upon discussion with the Social Prescribing link workers in the county, participants had expressed an interest in Creative Writing, Arts & Crafts, Music and attending performances. Various activities took place including Creative Writing workshops, Mapping Workshops, Art Workshops and visits to various productions. Feedback from clients was very positive;

“It reduced my stress levels. Gave me a break from the stresses in life.”

“It helped me realise how beneficial art is in our overall health and mentality.”

“It gave me a sense of being, and calm. Couldn’t wait for Thursday mornings.”

“It has changed my life, it made me get out more, and not be afraid, and it has really helped my wellbeing.”