FRIDAY, 10 APRIL, 2015

EMBARGOED UNTIL PHOTO OPPORTUNITY: 2.30PM, SATURDAY, 11 APRIL, THE STROKE REHABILITATION UNIT, STRACATHRO HOSPITAL, BY BRECHIN

Art display at Stracathro stroke rehabilitation unit

Colourful artwork 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 three months, using a variety of arts and crafts techniques.

Participants in the programme received one-to-one sessions and also had the opportunity to join in weekend group sessions which are run by Jude and volunteer THAT artist Shona Barr.

A wide range of the work produced by the group is on display, including monoprints felt pieces and mosaics.

ST/ART project coordinator Chris Kelly said, “It has been great to organise another successful programme at Stracathro and to see a new group of participants discover that being creative can be good for their health.

“Our relationship with the unit staff is very strong and we really appreciate their commitment, which is important to the ongoing success of the programme.”

Jude explained, “It has been a great experience to work with the team here at Stracathro and engage the patients in such a positive way. At first most participants think that they will not be able to do too much but are amazed and delighted to discover that they can. Despite their health difficulties, most find that taking part in the programme is a really positive, empowering experience for them.”

Charge nurse Sandie Japp, who has been closely involved in supporting the programme, added, “We have really enjoyed Jude’s contribution and are always amazed by the quality of work she helps our patients produce. The different approach that the artists bring to the patients’ rehabilitation is very refreshing.”

Contact:

Debbie Huband

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740134