Beyond Crisis: The Role of Arts Therapy in Post-Disaster Response – Lessons from the Grenfell Tower Fire

Our 6th seminar explores the important role of arts therapies in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire, the most significant civil disaster in the UK in recent decades.

This seminar will focus on the rapid, flexible, and holistic response necessary in such crises and the critical implementation of arts therapies by the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service. The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service was established shortly after the tragedy to provide comprehensive NHS mental health support to the bereaved, survivors, the wider community, first responders, and staff members involved. Recognising early on the unique value of arts therapies, the service has developed a diverse, holistic approach to meet the deeply varied needs of a community devastated by such an immense tragedy.

The session will underscore our collaborative endeavours with CNWL NHS Foundation Trust and our engagement with healthcare environments. The panel will share insights into the complexities of responding to large-scale emergencies and the therapeutic interventions that support healing and resilience in affected populations. Event Question: What role can arts therapists have following community crises? Session Highlights Discussion Panels: Engage with practitioners and leaders about the strategic deployment of arts therapies in disaster response and long-term recovery processes. Experiential Workshops: Participate in sessions led by professional arts therapists, offering hands-on understanding of the therapeutic approaches employed.

This seminar is designed for academics, practitioners, policymakers, and anyone interested in the integration of arts therapies in disaster response frameworks. Attendees will gain insights into the complexities of responding to large-scale emergencies and the therapeutic interventions that support healing and resilience in affected populations.