There is growing significant evidence that creating therapeutic environments in hospitals can lead to better clinical outcomes, such as recovery and rehabilitation times.
There are numerous factors to consider when applying for charitable funds to enhance a hospital area with the aim of creating an improved therapeutic environment. This applies whether the area is clinical, staff, patient, or public.
Due to current capacity, we ask that when applying for any art-based enhancements, you take the below information into consideration. There is a list of mandatory information that must be included in every application as well as some frequently asked questions
You can also refer back to the general guidance for the process on applying for grants.
Please note all arts application are currently taken to Charity Committee for review.
Consider if your application should include any additional enhancements, such as furniture. Ideally, all enhancements required for an area should be applied for in one application. If this is not the case, please give reason for multiple applications.
Frequently asked questions for artwork in the hospital environment
Can I apply to buy some wall-based artwork to improve a patient waiting area?
Yes. However, before applying please ensure that you have considered and addressed the below information before submitting the application.
Can I apply to buy some wall-based artwork to improve a staff area?
Yes. However, before applying please ensure that you have considered and addressed the below information before submitting the application.
Can I apply for a new site-specific artwork to be commissioned for?
There may be cases where we are able to support a new artwork commission, however, please note that currently this usually comes directly from discussions with the Estates teams for priority newly refurbed areas, or Capital Projects.
Information to include in all applications for artwork.
To buy existing artwork
- Rationale – Why do you need new artwork for this area? Please provide any information about existing artwork on display, and any plans for this. Include photos of any existing artwork.
- The Space – Include the location of the space, dimensions, photos, and describe its main function.
- Timescale – When do you need this artwork installed by?
- Access – Are there any restrictions on access to the space?
- Consultation – Have staff/patients/visitors been consulted? What was the feedback?
- Process – Have Estates and Fire Team advisors been consulted? When was the area last refurbed, are there any plans to refurb? Please include written correspondence of authorisation of enhancements from both these teams.
- Maintenance – How will this work be maintained (consider cleaning, security, daylight exposure as this can fade artwork).
- Type of artwork – Let us know why in particular you have chosen this artwork or let us know if you need suggestions or advice on what would be appropriate to display, from the Arts Programme Manager.
To commission a new site-specific artwork
- Rationale – Why do you need new artwork for this area? Please provide any information about existing artwork on display, and any plans for this. Include photos of any existing artwork.
- The Space – Include the location of the space, dimensions, photos, and describe its main function.
- Timescale – When do you need this artwork installed by?
- Access – Are there any restrictions on access to the space?
- Consultation – Have staff/patients/visitors been consulted? What was the feedback?
- Process – Have Estates and Fire Team advisors been consulted? When was the area last refurbed, are there any plans to refurb? Ideally newly commissioned work coincides with refurbishment plans and/or Estates Capital Projects team. Please include written correspondence of authorisation of enhancements from both these teams.
- Maintenance – How will this work be maintained (consider cleaning, security, daylight exposure as this can fade artwork)?
- Type of artwork – Share any examples of previous work you have seen.
For any arts participation programmes for staff and/or patients, please contact Arts Programme Manager, Katie Hickman on [email protected] to discuss your needs.
