A unique feature of our way of working is the pairing of artists with counsellor facilitators, which ensures a high degree of sensitivity towards patients and carers, allowing them to approach the artists and participate in the work in a supported way. Patients attend regularly, sometimes daily, for treatment and the relationships they form with the facilitators and artists, and the release they find in art work, can be very important to them.

The artwork is used as a vehicle for what we provide, which may be listening time as much as creative opportunity. The artists and facilitators need to be sensitive to ‘how’ people are waiting and identify those who may appreciate some contact and support. Many don’t wish to talk but tell us they enjoy watching the activity and find it soothing, and thus the process of making art can work on different levels.

Most of the artwork made in the waiting areas is designed by the artists in such a way that people will find it easy to join in for a short time and be ready to leave as soon as they are called by a nurse for treatment, or met by the ambulance driver after treatment. The designs also ensure that the finished pieces will work as artworks in their own right.
Our presence in the waiting room also acts as a support to nursing staff. As we work closely with people in the waiting areas we can be aware of the needs of patients, and in extreme circumstances alert staff, and therefore alleviate the distress of patients and carers.