FRIDAY, 26 MAY, 2017

EMBARGOED UNTIL PHOTO OPPORTUNITY: 2.30PM, SATURDAY, 27 MAY, 2017, STROKE REHABILITATION UNIT, STRACATHRO HOSPITAL

Celebration of patients’ arts and crafts at Stracathro Hospital

Colourful art and craftwork created by stroke inpatients went on display at the Stroke Rehabilitation Unit at Stracathro Hospital today (Saturday).

The work was created as part of the annual ST/ART art programme, an engagement project for stroke participants which is delivered across Tayside. The project is run by Tayside Healthcare Arts Trust (THAT) in association with NHS Tayside.

Artist Jude Gove has been working with inpatients at the Stroke Rehabilitation Unit over the past four months, tailoring the process to suit the participant using a variety of arts and crafts techniques including watercolours, printmaking, felting and collage.

Participants in the programme received one-to-one sessions and also had the opportunity to join in weekend group sessions which allow participants to work together in a social atmosphere.

A wide range of the work produced by the group is on display, including paintings, monoprints, textile cushions and even a lamp shade!

Chris Kelly, the ST/ART project coordinator, said, “It is always very satisfying to have another successful programme at Stracathro and to see a new group of participants discover that being creative can contribute to their rehabilitation and be good for their health and wellbeing.”

Jude explained, “It has been a terrific to come back to Stracathro again and engage the patients in such a positive way. At first most participants think they will not be able to do much but are amazed and delighted to discover that they can. Despite their stroke most find that taking part in the programme is a really positive, empowering experience for them.”

Charge nurse Sandie Japp added, “Once again we have been amazed at the way the art programme helps each individual differently. The work that patients produce and the impact that working with the artist can have is remarkable! It’s fantastic to have the work on display and see it all on show together.”

Contact:

Debbie Huband

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740134