This research was commissioned by Culture Chelmsford to understand the connections between culture and social prescribing in Chelmsford. The research, undertaken by Anglia Ruskin University, contributed towards one of the goals of the district’s 2023 Cultural Strategy. The strategy sets out a bold vision for Chelmsford: empowering communities to shape Chelmsford’s creative future while boosting local pride and wellbeing. One of the three key strategic themes is to improve health and wellbeing in the district as a consequence of engagement with creative and cultural activities and experiences. 

This research was supported by a Culture and Health Working Group, set up by Culture Chelmsford in 2024, including representatives from across the NHS, health care providers, community, charity, leisure, cultural organisations, education institutions and individuals with experience of culture and health contexts.  

This report explores the findings of the research which was conducted with members of the Working Group and a series of focus groups with wider stakeholders. The outcomes of the research provided recommendations to test ways of strengthening the connections between culture and social prescribing.  

These recommendations influenced the co-design of an innovative community grant programme and 18 new pilot projects. The research and report were funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and commissioned by Culture Chelmsford in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University and Chelmsford CVS with support from the National Centre for Creative Health.