Minister sees benefits of art therapy

“The arts and art psychotherapy can play an important role in a person’s wellbeing and the healing process.”

Those are the words of Huw Lewis AM, Minister for Housing, Regeneration and Heritage. Mr Lewis was speaking at Wrexham Maelor Hospital’s Heddfan unit which provides treatment for adults with mental health issues. During his visit to the unit Mr Lewis learnt about Art Therapy practice, saw an art workshop for older persons and met staff and service users.

The Minister said: “Art can have a positive affect on people who are in a healthcare setting. It provides another way for people to express themselves. It is interesting to see how art can help with stress levels and dealing with illness generally. It was very interesting to see the creative work being done at Wrexham Maelor.”

The work at Heddfan provides art psychotherapy as part of its therapeutic treatment; the unit is working in partnership with Engage Cymru which brings access to Galleries and Museums into a hospital setting.

During the visit the Minister also met Elizabeth Aylett, Betsi Cadwaldr University Health Board’s Head of Arts Therapies who was recently awarded the Welsh Government’s Recognising Achievement Award for her work.