Opportunities & Events
National Day of Arts in Care Homes 2026
Summary:
The National Activity Providers Association (NAPA) is inviting national organisations, coalitions, membership bodies, funders and policymakers to support the National Day of Arts in Care Homes on Thursday 24th September 2026. The 2026 theme, “Stories That Connect Us”, celebrates the power of creativity to express identity, share experiences, strengthen relationships and build connections between people, generations and communities.
Content:
Through visual art, music, movement, performance, photography, writing, spoken word, digital media and other creative forms, care communities are invited to explore stories in their broadest sense, from personal memories and cultural traditions to shared experiences, community histories and stories created entirely through imagination.
Since its launch in 2019, the National Day has become a growing UK-wide celebration of creative participation in care. Hundreds of care settings and thousands of people have taken part in activities, performances and creative projects.
NAPA believes national partners can help the campaign reach more people, strengthen connections between the care and cultural sectors, and increase recognition of meaningful activity and creative participation as important elements of good care and support.
NAPA is asking organisations to:
- Share the campaign with members, networks and regional contacts.
- Include the National Day in newsletters, briefings and events.
- Promote NAPA’s free toolkit and creative resources.
- Encourage care providers and cultural organisations to work together.
- Celebrate the expertise and contribution of Activity Providers.
- Highlight the voices and creative achievements of people receiving care.
- Share relevant evidence, learning and examples of good practice
Use #AICH2026 and tag NAPA when promoting the campaign.
Hilary Woodhead, CEO, at NAPA, said: “Organisations have the networks, influence and expertise to help creative participation become a more visible and valued part of care and support. By sharing the National Day with their members and partners, organisations can help more care communities access creative opportunities and build valuable local relationships. We invite colleagues across care, ageing, culture, health and wellbeing to stand with us in celebrating the creativity and contribution of people receiving care.”
Further information and free resources are available at: