Abstract:

The research Project encompasses Creative Activities in a Local College of Further Education attracting participants to improve their well-being through Intergenerational Lifelong Learning. At the same time, Dr Rogers in a second Doctoral Study explores the critical success factors for the sustainability of Social Prescribing “Art-on-Prescription in Wales, not only from Service Providers’ perspective but also from Service Users. The National Framework for Social Prescribing in Wales (NFfSP, December 2023) provides clear guidance on how social prescribing in Wales is supported by evidence-based research.

Professor Carolyn Wallace, Director of the Wales School for Social Prescribing Research (WSSPR)is Dr Rogers’ Director of Studies at The University of South Wales, Pontypridd, Faculty of Life Sciences and Education. “Flow Theory” , developed by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (2016), defines "flow" as a state of intense, energized focus and total absorption in an activity, commonly known as being "in the zone". It occurs when a person's skills perfectly match a high-level challenge, resulting in deep enjoyment, loss of self-consciousness, and a distorted sense of time. Csikszentmihalyi concludes that people may reach a “State of Flow” when engaged in creative activities, so much so that they may feel an ecstatic sense of well-being when totally immersed in their own creativity.

From early on in the research the six most critical factors from Service Provider perspectives are
(i) GPs understanding of non-medical interventions for helping people overcome situation of stress, anxiety and depression in place of prescribing medication such as antidepressants.
(ii) Access for people with disabilities.
(iii) National Policy support for the Service.
(iv) Funding is appropriate.
(v) Arts Practitioners have a good understanding of safeguarding.
(vi) A strong Referral process – every step is clear to all the stakeholders.

A mixed methods methodology was deployed using both qualitative and quantitative data through Group Concept Mapping (GCM) implementing GroupWisdomTM software.

This study will be contributing to the mounting evidence that Creative Health (APPGHWB, July 2017) underpins well-being, paving the way in supporting The Health of a Nation (1992). Dr Rogers will also share her perspectives on her recent Prize-Winning Conference Research Presentation in Sydney, Australia (December 2025) titled: The Health of a Nation through Lifelong Learning: Creativity is your Lifeline”.

Keywords:

Creativity, Lifelong Learning, mixed methods methodology, health & Well-Being, “The State of Flow”, Intergenerational Activities, National Policy, Creative Health, Social Prescribing.