Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor has announced the successful applicants of the Traveller Wellbeing Through Creativity programme, a fund designed to support Traveller organisations and Primary Health Care Projects in tackling health inequalities and improving wellbeing through creative approaches.
The initiative builds on the success of a pilot programme run in 2022–2023 by the Creative Ireland Programme and the Health Service Executive (HSE), with support from Healthy Ireland and the Arts Council. This new iteration represents a scaled-up approach, led by the HSE and the Arts Council, with a stronger emphasis on Traveller-led design and delivery.
Traveller organisations will engage in a wide range of creative forms including music, crafts, theatre, spoken word poetry, photography, visual art, creative writing, and recreational activities. Applications were invited from Traveller organisations working with Primary Health Care Projects and artists, with a focus on celebrating Traveller culture and heritage. Pavee Point Traveller and Roma Centre will provide management support for the programme.
Ten projects across Ireland have been selected, spanning Galway, Cork, Leitrim, Cavan, Dublin, Offaly, and Carlow. Minister Murnane O’Connor praised the initiative for recognizing the role of creativity, culture, and community in strengthening health and wellbeing, while placing Traveller leadership at its core.
Minister Patrick O’Donovan also welcomed the continuation of the programme, noting its origins in the Creative Ireland Programme and expressing support for the HSE as the scheme expands. The official launch took place at Collins Barracks, National Museum of Ireland, marking the beginning of this new phase of Traveller-led creative health initiatives.
