BTO to support art workshops at Paisley care home

Art in Healthcare is a charity which transforms Scottish healthcare settings with its extensive art collection, supports artists and provides art workshops in a wide range of care environments. A current focus of Art in Healthcare is the development of its services for people affected by dementia.

Margaret O’Connor, chief executive officer of Art in Healthcare, said: “Most people with a dementia diagnosis will experience memory difficulties and problems with thinking. Their needs will change as their disease progresses and their loved ones and carers will be affected by this change too. Everyday skills can be affected, such as cooking and driving, and the opportunity to develop some new skills through art can have a really positive impact on self-esteem.”

In preparation for the art workshops at Hillside View Care Home, Jen Bradley, a visual artist and visual arts facilitator, alongside Margaret O’Connor, recently ran art sessions at BTO’s Edinburgh and Glasgow offices to let BTO’s volunteers explore various art materials, such as watercolour pencils, paints and mono-printing techniques.

BTO partner, Lesley Gordon, who sits on the board of Art in Healthcare, said: “Most people know someone, perhaps a relative or a friend, affected by dementia. We asked our team if they could spare some time to assist at these art workshops and were overwhelmed by the positive response.

“We are very much looking forward to assisting Art in Healthcare and the residents at Hillside View Care Home over the coming months.”