Communities research, projects and placements

We have excellent relationships with our local universities as well as national and international institutions.

Research

Man looking at industrial machinery in a museum.

We are committed to taking part in, partnering and leading on research opportunities. It’s vital that we keep on progressing, asking questions and developing as an organisation and contributing to our sector and communities.  

We have excellent relationships with our local universities as well as national and international institutions.   

We have a particular interest in Culture, Health and Wellbeing and how we develop creative practice with colleagues from the Health and Care sectors. 


Recent research we have been involved with 

Projects

We work with partners in the Culture, Health and Heritage sector on innovative and pioneering projects.

Not So Grim Up North (2015-2018)

Not So Grim Up North investigated the health and wellbeing impact of museum and gallery activities for three audience groups: 

  • People living with dementia
  • Stroke survivors
  • Mental health service-users (including addiction recovery service-users). 

The research project was a collaboration between University College London (UCL) and museum partners: Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Museum, and North East Museums, funded by Arts Council England.

“The Research findings from Not So Grim Up North shows how museum and clinical staff are able to enhance each other’s services and how using arts and cultural initiatives have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of patients.” Kristie Pearson - Occupational Therapist at the Centre for the Health of the Elderly at Newcastle General Hospital


Slow Museums

We worked with Slow Shopping founder, Katherine Vero, to develop Slow Museums - creating a safe and supportive environment in our venues for people with anxiety, communication or literacy difficulties, older people, those living with dementia as well as those with more visible disabilities.

“Visiting a museum or gallery can stimulate new conversations. To be able to engage with history, culture and art is so valuable. We aim to encourage those who feel isolated, anxious or who lack confidence to come and engage with culture and to start the steps back to a full and healthy life.” Katherine Vero – Slow Museums

Placements

Close-up of hands examining the textures of a historical coin.

We currently offer exciting student placement opportunities for undergraduates and postgraduates. 

Students are invited to immerse themselves in our organisation; to learn, gain practical experience and design creative interventions.  

Recent placements have included students from Northumbria University, Newcastle University and Leicester University on courses as diverse as Adult Nursing, Cultural Management, History and Occupational Therapy.   

Find out about a recent Occupational Therapy placement in partnership with Northumbria University and CNTW NHS Trust.


Find out more

To find out more, contact: Sophie Mitchell