Culture, arts & mental health – call for speakers 

Mental health challenges affect nearly one in four people in Europe each year, with significant consequences for quality of life, social cohesion, and participation in the labour market. The European Commission’s Communication on A Comprehensive Approach to Mental Health highlights the important role that cultural participation can play in supporting well‑being — strengthening social connections, fostering belonging, boosting self‑esteem, and helping to reduce isolation, stress, and loneliness.

This contribution of culture to health and well‑being is further emphasised in the Culture Compass and in the Open Method of Coordination (OMC) report on culture and health, both of which underline the added value of cultural participation at local and regional levels.

In collaboration with ERRIN’s Health Working Group, this meeting, taking place on June 30, at the ERRIN premises, will explore regional best practices and case studies at the intersection of culture and mental health. The session will also highlight relevant EU policies and discuss opportunities for future EU‑funded activities.

We are looking for regional examples of projects related to culture, and mental health, which look at the following –

• Regional or local initiatives using culture to support mental health and well‑being
• Innovative approaches that build resilience, social cohesion, or community belonging
• Cross‑sector collaborations between cultural, health, and social actors
• Transferable lessons and recommendations for other regions

If you would like to propose a speaker for this event, please email Lorna.Murphy@errin.eu with a short description of your project or initiative, including some insight into the regional context; objectives and target groups; activities and methods, as well as the key outcomes, and your contact information, by Friday, May 22, at 12:00 CET.