New research led by Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation, School of Health Sciences at Bangor University estimates that the financial value of health and productivity benefits through engagement with the arts in Wales is at least £588m a year.

This is one of the conclusions drawn from brand-new research by leading health economists at  Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation at Bangor University and researchers at Edge Hill University into the vital role the arts play in supporting public health and reducing pressure on essential services alongside delivering considerable wellbeing benefits to people of all ages. 

This is first time the economic impact of the arts on the NHS and social care in Wales has been investigated at a national level, and the research was commissioned by Arts Council of Wales.

The independently-conducted report ‘Assessing the Economic Impact of the Arts on Health and Healthcare Services in Wales’ shows that engagement with the arts delivers at least £588 million in annual health and wellbeing benefits across Wales. The analysis applied recognised national models, used conservative assumptions throughout, and concludes that the true benefits are likely higher.

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