The Kylepark Assessment and Treatment Unit at Kirklands HQ is currently showcasing an exhibition of artwork produced by community and inpatients as part of their occupational therapy intervention.

The Occupational Therapy Enabling Arts group is an assessment and treatment programme which uses creative arts as therapy for people with learning disabilities.

Jacqueline Evans and Kathleen Lees, from the occupational therapy department, oversee the project.

Jacqueline explained: “There’s evidence which highlights that the creative process can facilitate change in function such as visual perception, spatial awareness, verbal and non-verbal communication and cognitive ability.

“This eight-week Enabling Arts programme is a valuable means for joint working and participation, promoting personal responsibility, decision-making and a sense of achievement.

“In addition, the group also provides an opportunity for social inclusion and access to mainstream creative arts organisations.”

The group was initially piloted in 2011 with the aim of designing and producing a mosaic for the newly-built Kylepark Assessment and Treatment Unit at Kirklands in Bothwell.

Its success led to continuation of the project and establishing links with North and South Lanarkshire councils’ arts and leisure services.

The Enabling Arts Group has several examples of artwork on permanent display throughout Lanarkshire.