The Voices of Creative Health

By Jennifer Leslie

The podcast explores how creativity can support mental health, emotional wellbeing, and a sense of belonging, with a focus on underrepresented communities. It serves as a platform for creative heal

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FAQs about The Voices of Creative Health:

How many episodes does The Voices of Creative Health have?

The podcast currently has 28 episodes available.

The Voices of Creative Health episodes:

March 17, 2026Episode 8: Creative Health in Action: Empowering Voices Through Art and Healing- With Guest Becky
Summary
In this episode, Jennifer Leslie engages in a heartfelt conversation with Becky Gibbs, exploring the profound impact of creativity on personal well-being and community healing. Becky shares her journey from being an actor to facilitating creative workshops, emphasising the importance of supportive mentors and the transformative power of the arts. They discuss how creativity can serve as a tool for expression, especially in challenging times, such as grief and loss, and how it can foster connection among individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Keywords
Creativity, mental health, community healing, arts therapy, personal growth, grief support, creative expression, empowerment, arts education, storytelling, creative health moments
Takeaways
Creativity is a practice that connects our inner worlds to the outer world.
Words matter; they can uplift or hinder young people's growth.
Art can provide a form for feelings that are otherwise hard to express.
Creative health is about finding form for our emotions and experiences.
Chapters & Content Note
Content Note: This episode includes discussions of grief and loss. Beck shares her personal experiences and reflections on healing through creativity.
00:00 – 12:05 Introduction & Personal Creative Journey
12:05 – 17:06 Influences, Mentorship, and Industry Challenges
17:06 – 22:01 Theatre, Rehabilitation, and Program Impact
22:01 – 30:00 Creativity, Grief, and Healing Through Art
30:00 – 43:23 Community, Connection, and the Role of Creativity in Grieving
43:23 – 57:36 Overcoming Barriers and Enhancing Creative Health
57:36 – 01:00:35 Practical Steps & Defining Creative Health
Transcripts
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/i9ds04f8aemyl1q0yursa/Episode-8.txt?rlkey=dp9tzix69xl8h8p8ipb4558ov&st=248z8hsq&dl=0
Connect with Becky:
Website: Gibbs Ink ltd
Instagram: @gibbs_ink
Resources Corner
Funding:
The White Pube Grant
Deadline N/A Rolling grant application
Amount: £500
Link: https://thewhitepube.co.uk/grants/
Funding Library
Funding Library | The White Pube
Events
Women In Art Fair X CCH Creative Health Day –
Amount: £25
Date Saturday 9th May 2026 10 am to 5 pm
Link: Women In Art Fair X CCH Creative Health Day Ticket Tickets, Saturday, May 9 from 10 am to 5 pm | Eventbrite
News
Southbank Validity Research - Expression of Interest
Link: Our Creative Community Wellbeing Scale | Southbank Centre
Additional information
The Art of Grieving (Past Exhibitions)
Exhibitions
Connect With Jen
Instagram: @thevoicesofcreativehealth
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1h 5min
March 10, 2026Episode 7: Sketching Across Borders The Self-Taught Journey of Creativity With Guest: Hillary
Summary
In this inspiring interview, Hillary shares his journey from childhood art to becoming a professional artist in the UK.
Keywords
Art, creativity, mental health, mentorship, community, charcoal, graphite, artistic journey creative health, creative health moments
Chapters
00:00 – Hillary’s Journey & Rediscovering Art
08:13 – Art, Healing & Connection
16:33 – Community, Workshops & Empowerment
22:01 – Balancing Life, Collaboration & Creative Health
Transcript
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/n6nnc268mgdajzrebf81x/Epidode-7.txt?rlkey=kaepaci67kzo4nda7gfv6czsd&st=vgvhnrm2&dl=0
Connect with Hillary
Website: Hillary Emetuche Art: Hyperrealistic Charcoal and Graphite | Hillary Emetuche Art
TikTok: @emetuche_hillary
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@emetuchehillaryart
Press features for Hillary
Engineer who tells stories in colour splash – The Sun Nigeria
Interview with BBC Igbo.. Link in bio. @bbcnewsigbo #art #hyperrealism #news #igbo #culture #nka | Emetuche Hillary Art | Facebook
Resources corner
Funding
Organisation: Creative Debut
Funding: The Black Artist Grant (BAG)
Link: BAG — Creative Debuts
Events:
Black Men's Creative Health Learning & Leadership Programme (BMC100)
Link: Black Men's Creative Health Learning & Leadership Programme (BMC100) Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite
News
The Southbank Centre Creative Community Wellbeing Scale,
Link: Our Creative Community Wellbeing Scale | Southbank Centre
Link to use the scale: Southbank Centre Creative Community Wellbeing Scale application | Southbank Centre
Additional Info
BIPC- Business & IP Centre
British Library Readers Pass– Register or renew your free Reader Pass - The British Library
Enfield Art Circle Enfield Art Circle
Connect with Jen:
Email: [email protected]
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50min
March 03, 2026Episode 6: Finding Your Voice Through Art and Faith With Guest Roro
Keywords
Creativity, emotional healing, art therapy, workshops, community, faith, personal growth, mental health, self-expression, creative health
Summary
In this conversation, Roro shares her creative journey from Taiwan to London, emphasising the importance of creativity in emotional healing and self-expression. She discusses her experiences with art as a language, the role of community in fostering creativity, and how her faith influences her work. Takeaways
Creativity can be a spiritual practice and a way to connect with God.
Creativity is about making space for emotions and healing.
Art serves as a language when words fail to express feelings.
Using colours and textures can represent different layers of emotions.
Navigating barriers in creativity requires self-acceptance and vulnerability.
Emotions are not inherently bad; it is how we express them that matters.
Defining creative health is a personal journey that varies for everyone.
Transcripts
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/q6njrd7ny5mtto7wm8059/Episode-6.txt?rlkey=0kol3nv6xl1bi33ojtkzkvoxg&st=3sqdstr6&dl=0
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Roro's Creative Journey
10:45 The Role of Creativity in Emotional Expression
13:22 Art as a Tool for Wellbeing
16:20 Exploring Craft and Community Engagement
18:53 Creativity and Faith: A Spiritual Connection
21:54 Relationships and Healing Through Art
24:26 Workshops: Crafting Identity and Connection
32:54 Collaboration Over Competition
34:05 The Beauty of Laying Down for Others
35:16 Creativity as Worship
36:26 Navigating Barriers in Creative Spaces
37:03 Reflections on Creative Health Course
38:38 The Art of Destruction in Creativity
43:45 Overcoming Fear of Judgment
46:36 The Importance of Community
49:44 Practical Steps to Enhance Creativity
52:04 Bringing Creative Health to Taiwan
53:38 Defining Creative Health
Connect with Roro
Instagram: @roroj_776 / @ro2.studios
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rorochiajochen
Resources Corner
FUNDING
Funder- London City Airport
Name: London City Airport Community Fund
Amount:£300 -£3000
Link: London City Airport Community Fund | London City Airport
EVENTS
Event – Reflective Co-Writing sessions – With Jane Willis
Link to register: Reflective Co-writing — Jane Willis
NEWS
£2.2 Million boost to Creative Enterprise Zones (CEZ) in London
Find your nearest CEZ: Creative Enterprise Zones | London City Hall
Connect with Jen
[email protected]
Instagram: @thevoicesofcreativehealth
Tic Tok- @thevoiceofch
LinkedIn- Jennifer Leslie
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58min
February 24, 2026Episode 5: Notes of Resilience How Music Shapes Identity and Wellbeing With Guest: Daniel
Keywords
music, creativity, teaching, personal journey, mental health, inspiration, community, performance, R&B, education, creative health, youth
Summary
In this conversation, Daniel shares his journey from a childhood surrounded by music to becoming a professional singer and educator. He discusses the challenges he faced in pursuing his passion for music, including financial barriers and the struggle to find his voice.
Takeaways
Daniel transitioned from art to music after realizing his passion for singing.
College helped him discover his raw talent and the theory behind music.
Working in a bar exposed him to live performances and inspired him to be on stage.
Teaching music allows him to inspire young people and share his passion.
Creative health is essential for personal expression and community engagement.
Chapters
00:00 The Musical Journey Begins
09:26 Navigating Education and Career Challenges
11:51 The University Experience and Growth
14:11 From University to the Stage
16:30 The Power of Music in Well-Being
19:12 Dynamics of Band Life and Collaboration
21:26 Teaching and Inspiring the Next Generation
21:32 Inspiring the Next Generation
25:21 The Power of Creativity in Healing
26:43 Bringing Creativity into Daily Life
27:46 Overcoming Barriers in Music
32:59 The Importance of Creative Health
Transcript
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/lk2bpmumvepmdosc75zpb/Episode-5.txt?rlkey=ptfsx6hs6qruofdtcpmcnvdly&st=vbu5poaq&dl=0
Connect with Daniel
Instagram: dan_daniel_100
Facebook: Dan Daniel
Resource Corner
Funding
The BRITT Trust - BRIT Trust Grants
Deadline: Thursday 30th April 2026 at 5.30pm
Amount: up to £10,000
Link: BRIT Trust Grants
Events
The Barring Foundation - Creative Mental Health and Global Majority Communities
Link: Creative Mental Health and Global Majority Communities Tickets, Thu, Mar 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM | Eventbrite
News : Creativity within Education:
The final Curriculum and Assessment Review
If you are interested in reading the review the links are in the show notes and to make the report more accessible – It is available also available in
Easy Read
Braille
British Sign Language
Link: Curriculum and Assessment Review Final Report - GOV.UK
Creative Health Research Round up 2025
Link Join the Creative Health Research Round-Up 2025, led by NCCH and RSPH. Discover UK creative health research, evidence, and impact at this free online event.
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37min
February 17, 2026Episode 4: Episode 4 Moving Together Dance Confidence and Creative Health With: Guest Lidiaana
Keywords
dance, creativity, healing, confidence, movement, Shegitu, emotional health, self-expression, community, empowerment
Summary
In this conversation, Lidiaana shares her journey in the creative industry, emphasising the importance of dance as a form of self-expression and healing.
Takeaways
Lidiaana's journey in the creative industry began with dance training in various styles.
Dance serves as a powerful tool for healing and emotional release.
Lidiaana emphasises the importance of community and support in her dance classes.
Transcript
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/lx7r5fg68agq1t7d7i8co/Episode-4.txt?rlkey=yzaj3hemmjnn71chfi2pju2r2&st=2x22ip4v&dl=0
Guest Information – Connect with Lidiaana
http://www.tiktok.com/@shegitudance
https://www.shegitu-dance.com/
https://www.instagram.com/shegitudance/
Resources Corner
FUNDING:
Grand Plan: Grand Plan Fund
Link to Fund - https://www.grandplanfund.co.uk/apply
Application Guidance- Application Guidance — Grand Plan
EVENTS
London Arts and Health and the Culture, Health & Wellbeing Alliance
Link : Creativity & Wellbeing Week 2026: How to take part Tickets, Mon, Mar 2, 2026 at 2:00 PM | Eventbrite
NEWS
Hospital Rooms
Link: About Us - Hospital Rooms Meet the Team Behind Hospital Rooms
Digital Art School
Link: Digital Art School - Hospital Rooms Free Creative Workshops for Mental Health Service Users
Artist Expression of Interest page
For artists who would like to be considered for an Hospital Rooms project.
Link: Hospital Rooms Artists EOI
London Arts and Health: Commission Essays
Link: 2026 Callout for Essays on Creative Health – London Arts in Health Forum
NETWORKS
National Arts in Hospitals Network (NAHN)
Link Home - National Arts in Hospitals Network
Connect with Jen
[email protected].
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57min
February 10, 2026Episode 3: Behind the Camera Finding Healing and Purpose Through Photography With Guest :Mic D
Keywords
photography, wellbeing, creative health, personal journey, overcoming barriers, youth workshops, mental health, community, mentorship
Summary
In this conversation, Mic shares his journey as a photographer, discussing the evolution of his craft, the impact of photography on his wellbeing, and his experiences working with youth. He emphasises the importance of personal expression through art, overcoming barriers in the industry, and the role of community and mentorship in fostering creativity.
Takeaways
Picking up my camera calms me down.
I created a safe space for young people through photography.
Traveling for photography has taken me to amazing places.
Creative health means doing what I love without judgment.
You need your own style in photography.
Community and mentorship are vital for creative growth.
Transcript
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wg0cvbqizw8ctgvwa034g/Episode-3.txt?rlkey=weag8qjz5nnwxh35gt44gxjae&st=bg43tmc0&dl=0
Resource Corner
Funding
Arts Council England - Research and Development for Individuals
Deadline - Thursday 26 February 2026
Link: Research and Development for Individuals | Arts Council England
Funding Webinar
Arts Council England Webinar: Research & Development Funding for Individuals - Zoom
Events
Community Corner
Name of event : Art Journeys
Date and time : Tuesday, Feb 24, 2026
Cost: Free
Link: Art Journeys Tickets, Tue, 24 Feb 2026 at 14:00 | Eventbrite
News
Barnet - Light & Flight Programme
Link: Light+Flight
London Borough of Barnet Culture Strategy – “There's ART in Barnet Strategy" 2024-2029.
https://www.barnet.gov.uk/community/arts-and-culture/what-were-doing-art-and-culture/barnets-culture-strategy-2024-2029
Cultural Strategies for other London Boroughs
https://www.london.gov.uk/programmes-strategies/arts-and-culture/mayors-cultural-vision/london-boroughs-cultural-strategies.
Connect with Jen
[email protected]
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33min
February 03, 2026Episode 2: Exploring the Infrastructure of Creative Health
Keywords
Creative Health, Infrastructure, Funding, Policy, Community Engagement, Education, Training, Health and Wellbeing, Arts, Resources

Summary
This conversation explores the multifaceted infrastructure of Creative Health, emphasizing the importance of funding, policy, education, and community engagement. Jennifer Leslie discusses how these elements work together to support creative health initiatives and the role they play in enhancing health and wellbeing through creative expression.

Takeaways
Creative Health is supported by various infrastructures.
Physical spaces like community centres are essential.
Human infrastructure includes artists and volunteers.
Education is crucial for sustaining creative health.
Funding shapes the longevity of creative health programs.
Policy influences recognition and support for creative health.
Creative health can prevent ill health and promote wellbeing.
Community engagement is vital for creative health initiatives.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Creative Health
01:26 Understanding Infrastructure
02:01 Physical and Human Infrastructure
03:20 Education and Knowledge Infrastructure
04:19 Funding Infrastructure
05:25 Policy Infrastructure
07:12 Defining Creative Health
08:26 Networking and Community Engagement
09:24 Resources Corner: Funding Opportunities
12:32 Closing Thoughts and Next Episode Preview
Transcript
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8yiemkpdh4kt3p8jqk19h/Episode-2.txt?rlkey=zm2ch4qidyand86c2f1isjo8g&st=1f0psqoj&dl=0

Resource Corner
Funding
PRS Foundation – Early Career Promoter Fund
Link: Early Career Promoter Fund - PRS for Music Foundation
Deadline: 12th February 2026

Events
Thrive Health Alliance
Link: Art Meets Music – Paint, Music & Vibes Tickets, Tue, Feb 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM | Eventbrite
Date and time : Feb 17th, 2026, 2pm to 9pm
Cost: Free

News
Creative Health Leads Programme
Link: National Centre for Creative Health
Networking
Enfield Culture Network- Connecting people to arts, culture and community.
Link: Enfield Culture Network

Connect with Jen
Creative health isn’t a trend — it’s a movement, and you’re part of it.
If today’s conversation sparked something for you, follow the podcast, leave a review, and help us widen access by sharing this episode.
And if you’d like to get in touch, collaborate, or share your story, you can email us at [email protected].
Because your voice, your creativity, and your wellbeing truly matter.
...more
14min
January 30, 2026Episode 1:The Voices of Creative Health: An Introduction to Creativity Community and Care
Keywords
creative health, community building, accessibility, sustainability, underrepresented communities, creativity, mental health, self-care, collaboration, podcast

Summary
In this podcast, Jennifer Leslie introduces the concept of 'Creative Health' and its significance in community building. She emphasises the need for creativity to be recognized and accessible to all, particularly in underrepresented communities. The discussion highlights the role of creativity during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of collaboration over competition in fostering a supportive creative environment.
The podcast aims to explore various aspects of creative health, including sustainability and accessibility, while sharing stories from practitioners and individuals involved in creative health initiatives.
In our Resources Corner, we share the latest funding, events, and news from the creative health world—helping you access the opportunities you might not have known existed.

Takeaways
The podcast is about educating and building community through creativity.
Creative health should be discussed like mental health and self-care.
Creativity can help navigate through grief and loss.
COVID highlighted the importance of creativity in community support.
Creativity should be accessible to all socioeconomic backgrounds.
The podcast will feature stories from creative health practitioners.
Collaboration is key in the creative health community.
There are organisations working to improve diversity in creative health.
The podcast aims to raise the profile of creative health.
Listeners are encouraged to share their creative health stories.

Connect with Jen
Creative health isn’t a trend — it’s a movement, and you are a part of it.
If today’s conversation sparked something for you, follow the podcast, leave a review, and help us widen access by sharing this episode.
If you would like to get in touch, collaborate, or share your story, you can email us at: [email protected].
Because your voice, your creativity, and your wellbeing truly matter.
Transcript
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/qf470erdw4g12yipho3lb/New-Episode-1-Show-Notes.txt?rlkey=if50zc37tqmw167gd8exejjfd&st=f2bifbzr&dl=0
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8min

FAQs about The Voices of Creative Health:

How many episodes does The Voices of Creative Health have?

The podcast currently has 28 episodes available.