Frames of Mind, formerly known as Salmagundi Films, has spent years demonstrating that art and creativity can play a powerful role in mental health recovery. Their work goes beyond therapy, offering animation and filmmaking opportunities to communities who might otherwise never have access to creative production.
In an interview over Microsoft Teams, co-founders Bo Chapman and Zoe Flynn described both the impact of their projects and the ongoing struggle to secure sustainable funding.
Thanks to National Lottery support, their latest initiative will see them collaborate with artist Matt Ponting and the Active Support Group at Chargable Lane Resource Centre to create branding for the group’s catering project, CommuniTeas and Coffee.
Despite a strong track record, organisations like Frames of Mind continue to face an uphill battle when it comes to funding. A 2017 All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) report found that creative activities can significantly improve recovery and reduce GP visits, demonstrating clear benefits for both individuals and the wider health system.
Chapman remembers how encouraging that research initially felt.
“The stats were through the roof,” she said. “Not only saving the NHS money through prevention but completely reducing GP visits, recovery—everything. We got really excited because we didn’t have to be the ones saying ‘Look, this works.’ There it was, on paper.”
Yet the evidence has not translated into consistent long-term support.
“We thought by now it might be a regular thing and people would say, ‘Hey, come and work on this ward,’” Flynn explained. “It’s not as easy as that.”
Social prescribing, where GPs refer patients to initiatives like Frames of Mind, helps connect people with creative programmes, but it rarely provides long-term stability.
“A grant application could take both of us a week,” Chapman said. “And then you still don’t know if you’re going to get it.”
Part of the challenge lies in lingering scepticism about the role creativity can play in recovery. Some still assume social prescribing is only suited to low-impact activities or older participants. In reality, Frames of Mind has worked with a wide range of people, offering a space where participants can build confidence while learning practical, transferable skills.
Beyond the statistics, the human impact of their projects is striking.
The organisation’s In the Loop project worked with young people experiencing early-stage psychosis. Participants created digital CVs using stop-motion animation, photography and creative writing. One participant described the experience as “life-changing”, realising they had valuable skills and something meaningful to offer.
Another project, People Need People, tackled digital exclusion among older adults. Many participants had little experience using smartphones or tablets, leaving them disconnected from both family and essential services. Through the sessions they developed digital skills while also forming friendships and support networks.
One participant described the programme’s impact simply:
“People Need People keeps you connected with society. Otherwise we’re stuck at home on our own and feel like aliens. When you come here, you feel like part of the human race again.”
Another powerful example came from a woman in Cambridge who was experiencing psychosis and at risk of losing custody of her child. Through a stop-motion animation project she created a short film featuring a fidget spinner her son had made and her favourite Psychedelic Furs CD.
Watching the finished piece moved her to tears.
“I realised I’ve just acted out my relationship with my son.”
She later regained custody and went on to study at art college.
“It gave me something to get out of bed for in the morning,” she said.
For Chapman and Flynn, these stories highlight why creative expression should be recognised as an essential part of mental health support.
Their upcoming collaboration with CommuniTeas and Coffee continues that mission. Participants will work on branding and design for the catering initiative, building practical skills while contributing to a community enterprise.
Chapman remains hopeful about the future.
“We’ve seen lives change because of this work,” she said. “Now it’s about making sure we can keep doing it.”
With continued support, organisations like Frames of Mind could redefine the role of creative expression in mental health care, turning artistic storytelling into a powerful tool for recovery, confidence and community.
Colin Cushion 
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