Karen presented key findings, outputs and impacts from the project, conducted in partnership with the Market Development Association and the Market community, which used arts-based methodologies to help address substance use, intergenerational trauma and mental health issues in the community.

The presentation highlighted the importance of community voice in the process, working with residents of the Market community in Belfast, using creative methods including photography and storytelling to support people in sharing their experiences across generations. The resulting public exhibition ‘The Market: A People’s Tapestry’ gave a platform to voices often unheard.

Karen reflected the findings from the study which raised awareness of the challenges faced by the community but also tackled stigma, built connections, and strengthened resilience. Participants reported feeling empowered and more engaged in community life, while the work has since inspired policy papers, podcasts, and a toolkit to help other communities use arts-based approaches to wellbeing. With significant media coverage and growing interest in expanding the ‘Tapestry’, the project shows the transformative role that culture and creativity can play in addressing complex health issues; and the importance of the role communities can play in addressing key public health concerns.

The EHPS conference was held in Groningen, The Netherlands, with the focus on “Putting Health Psychology to Work: Prevention, Practice and Policy”. The conference brings together psychologists and researchers working in health psychology seeking to address public health challenges, change health-related behaviours, improve health outcomes through health promotion, policy change and innovation.

The conference abstract and presentation slides can be accessed here:

EHPS Abstract

EHPS Presentation