GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S health services are to lead the way in building links between artists and hospitals.

The county’s Clinical Commissioning Group was one of two selected investigate ways of involving more arts and culture in NHS centres.

The project will help raise awareness of the potential for arts and culture to help improve the health and wellbeing of the county’s residents.

The organisation was chosen by the Cultural Commissioning Programme to take part in this new three-year scheme, Funded by the Arts Council, to build links with museums, libraries and other arts organisations.

GP and Clinical Chairman at NHS Gloucestershire CCG Dr Helen Miller explained that Gloucestershire has a good reputation for using new methods in healthcare.

Dr Simon Opher, a GP in Dursley, said: “We are always looking for new and innovative ways to ensure we get the best health and wellbeing outcomes for our residents from the limited resources available to us.

“Tapping into artistic, cultural and creative activities will help us to explore and introduce opportunities to enhance and support medical interventions.