Government urged to back arts and crafts on prescription for mental health
Healthcare experts should prescribe structured arts and craft activities to support people currently experiencing mental health challenges or loneliness, according to a new report. A new survey found that that 8.8million people in the UK already use creative activity to improve their mood.
The survey by Hobbycraft, supported by mental health charity Mind, found 72% of the nation are in favour of healthcare experts recommending arts and crafts as 40% are experiencing some level of mental health challenge.
Dr Sarah Hughes, CEO of Mind said: "One in four of us have a mental health problem and millions of people are on waiting lists for support. The solution to the mental health crisis requires a wide range of approaches, and acknowledging the role crafting can play in people's wellbeing should be part of that.'
Hobbycraft has written to the government to call for greater awareness, consistency and more widespread adoption across the country for arts and crafts to be prescribed by healthcare professionals, as part of existing NHS social prescribing schemes, and to be given greater priority in wellbeing strategies.
Pottery tops the wish list of new crafts most people would love to try. It's a hobby loved by actor and comedian Johnny Vegas, who cites pottery as something that 'saved me'.
Another hobby rising in popularity is model making, which is a favourite with actor Danny Dyer, while classic crafts like crocheting remain popular across the globe, with stars from Katy Perry to Ryan Reynolds sharing their love for the hobby.
Alex Willson, CEO of Hobbycraft said: 'This research echoes what we hear from customers every day: crafting is far more than a hobby. Whether it's stitching, painting, or pottery, these hands-on activities help people slow down, express themselves, and feel more connected. We'd welcome crafts and hobbies being formally recognised as a tool for wellbeing within healthcare settings.
'As we look to the future, we are committed to continuing our work with Mind to ensure that more people can experience the joy and healing power of crafting. This report is just the beginning, and together, we hope to make creativity a cornerstone of wellbeing in communities across the country.'
Hobbycraft is launching in-store Mindful Mondays – offering crafters a free and welcoming space to craft, make friends and feel part of their community. These will be free to attend and launch in September in selected stores.
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