The Government’s London Landscape research notes a high ‘anxiety score’ amongst Richmond residents (4th of 32 boroughs, drawn from wellbeing-related questions) and the borough has the highest proportion of people aged over 75 and living alone in London (51% vs 35% for London). Loneliness and isolation are problems commonly experienced by those with mental health issues and older people living alone, exacerbated by COVID-19. We aim to improve wellbeing for these groups through art and gardening.

The Wellbeing at Turner’s House programme offers older people and those receiving mental health support high-quality art and horticultural workshops inspired by the work and house of the artist JMW Turner. Working in partnership with Richmond MIND and Age UK, we will design and deliver sessions which aim to improve mental and physical wellbeing, alleviate loneliness, encourage creativity and build confidence, in carefully considered formats which prioritise the health and safety of all involve.