Closure of The Arts Wellbeing Collective - A Devastating Loss for Our Creative Industry.
At the end of 2024, the Arts Wellbeing Collective closed its doors, leaving a significant gap in mental health and wellbeing support for the creative industries. For years, this initiative provided invaluable resources, tools, and programmes that supported the emotional and psychological needs of artists and arts workers. Their sudden closure has left many creatives wondering, What now?
The Impact of the Arts Wellbeing Collective Closure
The closure of the Arts Wellbeing Collective cannot be understated. For an industry already battling disproportionate mental health challenges, this loss has left the creative community without a crucial lifeline.
Here are some sobering statistics that underscore the urgency:
63% of creative workers report experiencing anxiety, compared to 15% in the general population.
56% identify financial insecurity as a significant stressor, compounding mental health issues.
Creative professionals often face irregular work schedules, long hours, and high emotional demands—without consistent access to tailored support services.
This closure has not only disrupted the flow of much-needed resources but has also left many individuals and organisations feeling unsupported during an already challenging time.
At Hey Mate, we recognise the profound impact this closure has on the sector we serve. Our mission has always been to champion mental health and wellbeing in the creative industries, and we are committed to ensuring that this vital support continues. In response to this gap, we’re taking immediate action with a comprehensive plan to support the creative community.
1. Rebuilding and Expanding Resources
We are launching a resource re-creation initiative to replace and update the tools that were lost with the Arts Wellbeing Collective’s closure. These resources will be tailored to the unique needs of creatives, focusing on critical topics like stress management, burnout prevention, and resilience building.
2. Offering Tailored Support
We are continuing to provide organizations and individuals with tailored wellbeing services. This is designed to offer the consistent support that creatives need to thrive.
3. Amplifying Advocacy
We’re committed to keeping the conversation about mental health in the creative industries alive. Over the coming months, we’ll host panel discussions and webinars to provide spaces for dialogue, connection, and shared learning.
4. Collaboration and Partnerships
While Hey Mate is stepping forward, we recognise that we can’t do this alone. Other vital organisations, such as Support Act, continue to provide essential services to the creative community. We believe a collective effort is required to ensure no one is left behind.
How You Can Help
The wellbeing of our creative industries is a shared responsibility. Here’s how you can join us in making a difference:
Collaborate with Us: Partner with Hey Mate to co-develop and deliver new initiatives that address mental health challenges in the arts.
Contribute Your Ideas: If you have suggestions for resources, programmes, or funding opportunities, we’d love to hear from you.
Advocate for Change: Use your voice to highlight the importance of mental health in the arts. Share our initiatives and encourage others to get involved.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
The closure of the Arts Wellbeing Collective is a reminder of the fragility of mental health support systems in the creative industries. It’s also an opportunity for all of us to step up, come together, and ensure that these critical needs are met.
At Hey Mate, we’re committed to building a future where creatives feel supported, valued, and empowered. Let’s work together to make that vision a reality.
Join the Conversation: We want to hear from you. What does the creative sector need most in this moment? Share your thoughts and ideas with us here. Together, we can ensure a brighter, healthier future for our creative industries.
