Creative Journeys Report 2019

Creative Journeys 33 previously been found amongst staff and patients in varied healthcare settings: Wilson et al., 2016). The current findings indicate that participatory arts had an impact on the social relationships between residents and staff through enhancing communication, shared experiences, and changing the dynamics of the relationship (including facilitating reciprocal relationships). 4.3.1 Communication As in the relationships between residents sections, communication included both verbal and non-verbal forms of interactions between staff and residents. However communication can also be formal or informal, and the findings suggested that residents became more informal and confident in their interactions with staff through participating in arts activities. In addition, it was consistent across the data that new topics of conversation were created both between residents and staff during arts activities but also with other staff in the home who had not participated in arts activities. In stage one, both residents and staff were unsure of, and in some cases anxious about, the arts activities before they started. However, taking part in the activities was perceived to be a positive experience for everyone involved and participants’ confidence increased throughout. This was evident in observations, where in the final sessions/performance they were assured in speaking up, doing dance movements, singing, activities, and story-telling within the group, and it was also noted by care home staff members and arts facilitators in interviews. Subsequently, many of the residents conversed more with staff and were also more assertive in their interactions. You just bring up bits and pieces about what they have mentioned about the past, and that is when they start feeling comfortable again, and then they will have a laugh and joke with you. It has brought a few of them out of themselves. (Stage one staff member) She’s an open book now, she doesn’t stop. She sits there in her chair, she can’t do much but she’s got the confidence to talk about things, now, and ask and say, “Well, actually I don’t like cornflakes. I want porridge, and I need someone to help me eat it because I can’t. (Stage one activities coordinator) …with one of my ladies, she’s got more confidence to talk to people. And there’s more people getting involved in things now. (Stage one staff member) Residents also appreciated the opportunity to talk more informally with staff. Well yes, the friendly talk, you know, about our lives as well as theirs. Yes. No. that was very good. I enjoyed it anyway. (Stage one resident) The arts activities not only provided an opportunity for interaction, but also provided new topics of conversation, both about the activities themselves and about the stories that were told by residents which helped staff get to know them better. Residents had the opportunity to share their stories in a new context and with new people – promoting sharing and expression, and giving them the space to find their voice.