News from our Tonic Arts Programme

World-renowned London Symphony Orchestra has performed a series of ground-breaking concerts at four hospitals across NHS Lothian as part of the Edinburgh International Festival. The uplifting events, organised in collaboration with NHS Lothian Charity, saw patients and staff enjoy some respite and distraction through an afternoon of music.

Staff, patients and visitors at the Western General Hospital welcomed conceptual artist, Bill Drummond, on Tuesday 13 June to officially commence the loan of his ‘The Boy Friends’ Painting’ for the next year.

The project is centred on improving the physical and mental wellbeing of patients, staff and visitors through the incorporation of art and craft.

This year’s awards continued to honour the innovation, architecture, people, products and services that are helping to transform patient care in both the NHS and private sector.

NHS Lothian Charity’s Tonic Arts and Green Health programmes, in partnership with Stills: Centre for Photography, has appointed Sony Photographer of the Year 2021, Craig Easton, and photographer-writer, Lottie Davies, on a great new staff engagement project.

Letters to a Future NHS explores the challenges faced by BME, LGBT+, Disabled and Youth Staff members through a programme of creative activities.

A series of nine short films was created and showcased by 25 NHS Lothian staff members, celebrating the skills, dedication and creativity of NHS Lothian staff.

The Building Better Healthcare Awards celebrate outstanding achievements and innovation in healthcare and recognise the people leading the way across the sector.