Powys Arts and Health Project 'Express Yourself' Shortlisted for Prestigious Rehabilitation Award

A room of patients sat in a chair circle, stretching their arms

6 October 2025

The Express Yourself arts and health initiative, led by Powys Teaching Health Board (PTHB), has been shortlisted for the Award for Excellence in Rehabilitation at the Advancing Healthcare Awards Cymru 2025.

This bold and innovative programme was originally initiated by the Speech & Language Therapy team at PTHB, who identified a need for creative support for adults living with communication difficulties secondary to neurological conditions. Their vision laid the foundation for a collaborative, arts-led response that has since grown into a transformative experience for participants.

Through a series of creative drama and movement workshops led by renowned local arts professionals including Shakespeare Link, participants explored new ways of expressing themselves, building confidence, and reconnecting with their communities.

The project was developed and delivered by the Express Yourself team in collaboration with PTHB’s Arts in Health programme, with support from staff, participants, and funders. It has been praised for its inclusive approach, therapeutic value, and the quality of its artistic outcomes.

One participant said: “It pushed me out of a comfort zone I didn’t even realise I was in. Using sounds and speech was tricky for me, but because of the nature of the sessions, it didn’t feel like speech therapy.”

Project Lead Ceinwen Douglas said:
“We’re thrilled to see Express Yourself recognised at a national level. This project has shown how creativity can unlock potential and foster meaningful rehabilitation. We’re proud of every participant and grateful to our partners and funders for believing in the vision.”

This project has been made possible through valuable funding support from the Arts Council of Wales via The Arts Health and Wellbeing Fund, and the Powys Health Charity.

We wish the whole team the best of luck. The award ceremony will take place later this year, celebrating excellence across health and social care in Wales.