Artist wanted to work within a design group of people with lived experience of Severe Mental Illness (SMI) to redesign communications sent out by GP practices that encourage people on the SMI register to attend and have their annual physical health check alongside other letters and information packs around mental health services.

People with Severe Mental Illnesses face a number of health inequalities and have a life expectancy around 15-20 years lower than average – the physical health check is one of the services the NHS can offer to address this; alongside that it’s important that all mental health services that can enable people to live well in their community are properly communicated. It is know from previous consultations that people might not even open an envelope if it looked intimidating or frightening, and that they would be put off by too little information, or too much text. The ideal applicant artist will be able to illustrate the NHS communications to make them more friendly and welcoming and help to support people accessing the services they need.

Artists are asked to submit examples of their work that best shows their style and celebrates the local area. This can include landmarks, people and places.
The successful artist would then meet with the group over approx. 8 biweekly co-design sessions to work together to create a beautifully illustrated pack to sent to patients.

Artists interested in applying should submit examples of their work before the deadline of Thursday 25th June 5pm to SophieJo.peel@swyt.nhs.uk work will be shared with our co-production groups for them to decide on the successful applicants.
To discuss in more detail; please contact Sophie on 07721 628 155