10. Short Debate: The well-being benefits of the arts in a pandemic

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:04 pm on 18 November 2020.

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Photo of Jayne Bryant Jayne Bryant Labour 6:04, 18 November 2020

Diolch, Llywydd. As we move through one of the most challenging global pandemics for generations, it's easy to see why some people might overlook the arts. They may not play an obvious role in addressing the problems we're facing, but it's so important to recognise how the arts have been integral to the mental and physical well-being of people of all ages and abilities, as well as bringing people together. Nothing highlights this more than the outpouring of community expression seen at the start of the pandemic. As COVID minimised our ability to socialise, people simply found new ways in which to show their gratitude—painted pebbles left on the street, artworks displayed in window upon window, street singalongs, amongst others, to give thanks to our NHS, social care staff and key workers. All are expressions that use our creative skills, and we've seen art and music continue to inspire people in this—people designing and making face masks, for example, and the wonderful Prosecco and Purls knitting and crochet group, who have been busy throughout the pandemic creating a magic garden in Caerleon in support of St David's hospice foundation and also bringing a ray of hope and fun to the village.