Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Arts is an integral part of London's newest NHS teaching hospital and its philosophy of healthcare, but is not funded by the NHS. Nothing we do deprives anyone of a bed, treatment or research; and the Trust views our work as an equally important part of the healthcare it offers.

 

Since the hospital opened in May 1993 we have installed some 1000 works of art in wards, corridors, clinical and public areas. We try very hard to keep the works of art fresh and engaging, which is why continual funding is so important. Core-funding has for many years been provided by the Chelsea and Westminster Health Charity, the rest however is all privately raised from individuals, charities, businesses, etc.

 

The main objective for Hospital Arts is to create a healing environment where the visual and performing arts are combined to help relieve anxiety and assist in recovery. The Hospital was the first in Britain to provide weekly entertainment for patients, staff and visitors in the mall, on the wards and in the clinics. As a public building open to everyone, it may be for many people their first introduction to the arts which is why we ensure the selection criteria is of a high standard. The staff also benefit from live music, exhibition spaces and from specially arranged arts projects to assist in their training and development.

 

In 1998 Hospital Arts set up a research project, funded by the King’s Fund: 

A Study of the Effects of Visual and Performing Arts in Healthcare was the first ever scientific, clinical evaluation to be carried out. This area of research is of interest for a wide range of professionals, including health authorities, policy makers, medical and nursing staff, architects, artists, and administrators.

In 2007 Hospital Arts became part of the Chelsea and Westminster Health Charity. The relationship will ensure that the philosophy of arts-in-healthcare will remain an integral part of the new Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

If you would like to contribute to the healing environment please click here.