The Arts in Health team, funded by Sheffield Hospitals Charity, have been busy across the hospitals, providing staff and patients with festive activities.
The Staff Christmas performances were the first of its kind, designed to engage patients in some Christmas joy during their hospital stay. The talented performers took part in their own free time and delivered some Christmas classics for staff, patients, and families visiting to play instruments and singalong. They also performed a short play that was written by NHS staff - Fiona Fisher, Maddie Martinis, Cat Garrud and Bruno Sanders - in other creative classes led by the Arts in Health team.
The team also hosted Christmas Staff creativity sessions across the Northern General Hospital and Royal Hallamshire Hospital. Staff and volunteers were invited to paint their own bauble for free which they could then take home or gift to another.
Two of the writers and health information professionals, Bruno and Cat said, “It’s nice to bring the arts to the clinical areas. People might miss their creative outlet – plays, shows, galleries, theatre. They might be struggling with the fact they are in hospital at a difficult time, so we hope these performances provide a glimmer of light and festive joy. It’s nice to have the opportunity to be so positive and feel like we’re giving something back to the patients and staff”
A patient said, “I used to be a pantomime dame, and these performances brought back all those memories. I really enjoyed myself and seeing the other patients get involved made it even more fun.”
One of the performers, Christina said, “I’ve been in the NHS for over 20 years, and I’ve always been interested in the arts so to combine the two is special.”
A staff member who painted their bauble, Samantha said, "Thank you so much for this fun activity - great for mental wellbeing and feeling close to my colleagues. It's made me feel very appreciated!"
Published: Friday 13th of December 2024