WEST OF ENGLAND CREATIVE HEALTH NETWORK LAUNCH
January 2026 marked the launch of a new regional network uniting artists, cultural organisations and the VCSE sector to champion Creative Health across Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) and Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES).
Highlights from the launch:
- Philip Walker (Bristol City Council) emphasised Bristol’s strong, interdisciplinary creative health ecology. The cultural sector contributes nearly £1bn per year to the local economy, including an estimated £124m in direct NHS savings linked to cultural engagement.
- Sarah James (West of England Mayoral Combined Authority) highlighted the region as being part of a national network of combined authorities advocating for Creative Health, and how new devolution legislation requires health outcomes to be woven across policy.
- Mark Hubbard (BNSSG ICB) outlined the VCSE Alliance and Brokerage framework bringing diverse community organisations into strategy and delivery – meeting strong demand for programmes combining creative health, nature‑based work and physical activity.
- David Moss (One Weston and Woodspring NHS BNSSG) showed how Creative Health is embedded in place‑based, co‑designed work, creating the space statutory services struggle to provide.
- Group discussion amongst the attendees resulted in actionable feedback to further develop the network and regional Creative Health delivery.
Attendees called for:
1. A more connected regional ecosystem and shared learning
2. Stronger, collective advocacy and visibility in NHS/system strategies
3. Clearer, navigable
funding routes
Full Findings PDF
Read the full summary, including illustrations captured at the launch by artist, Jasmine Thompson.
Launch event useful links:
Photos from the launch
