Little Lights

Little Lights was developed as part of a pilot social prescribing programme for people in Ipswich and East Suffolk who are living with complex health challenges. Produced in partnership with Ipswich and East Suffolk NHS Alliance, the programme has enabled patients to work with a specialist social prescriber to find alternative routes to health including wellbeing coaching, opportunities to engage with nature and creativity.

In 2023, our Little Lights pilot included the distribution of 100 postal packs containing visual art and creative writing tasks and materials and 8-week creative workshop series at Eastern Angles in Ipswich.

Art Cafes

Since the pilot we have delivered 3 more series of Little Lights art cafes, artist-led art for wellbeing workshops in cafe settings. Led by arts-health specialist and illustrator Marie Soul, participants enjoyed weekly arts activities, tea/coffee and companionship firstly at Bishop’s Cafe, Holywells Park, then at The Key Cafe, next to Christchurch Park in Ipswich. Each attendee was given a complimentary pack of art materials to take home to continue creative activities beyond the workshops. Their work featured in pop-up exhibitions at the venues.

“The sessions have given me more hope for a better life.”

“I’ve had the best time meeting some amazing people who understand what it’s like having a chronic illness.”

“Little Lights has really lifted my spirits and helped me to focus and motivate myself to try new things.”

Impact

This programme was underpinned by a growing body of clinical and public health research showing how regular engagement with arts and heritage can help us live longer, more healthy and meaningful lives. Getting creative with others can positively impact physical/mental health symptoms, boost self-esteem, reduce isolation and improve quality of life. Impacts have included: