The social responsibilities of museums is an emerging topic in the sector. Access, education and heritage studies form part of a wider social intervention to meet the needs of the community locally and nationally, in a holistic and inclusive way. This book looks at a future where the health and well-being of communities is enhanced by the development of museum services.
'At last a book which maps the territory of Museums in Health, explores the evidence for a wide range of outcomes and provides a series of illuminating case studies.' Mark O'Neil, former Head of Glasgow Museums, UK 'Museums, Health and Well-Being does a world of good! Firming the lofty claim that museums can heal with evidence, this essential book reveals how and why they do. Linking exemplary museum practice in the UK to the burgeoning Arts in Health movement yields fresh insight and valuable resources. Perhaps most importantly, the authors do not simply laud the present: they delve deeply into critical challenges like measurement, evaluation, and advocacy to chart an inspiring course for the robust development of museums as agents of health. This book is a tonic to invigorate the future of museums as well as healthcare.' Lois H. Silverman, Museum Studies Specialist and Author, The Social Work of Museums 'A ground-breaking manifesto for a new movement linking museums and health, this important work points to the key role of museum collections and heritage sites in promoting well-being.' Constance Classen, Author of The Deepest Sense: A Cultural History of Touch This book could not be more timely. What better asset can there be than the most fundamental of all windows on society - museums. They allow us as individuals and communities to connect with our cultures and it is those very cultures, past and present, that set the context for health in the future. From the Foreword by Richard Parish, Chief Executive, Royal Society for Public Health, UK
