Introducing a lived experience ambassador model for Creative Health Boards

Doncaster is pioneering a new approach to advocating for creative health by placing people with lived experience at the centre of local arts and wellbeing initiatives. This report, written by Artist, Arts Therapist, and embedded researcher Emilie Taylor, explains how Lived Experience Ambassadors (individuals who have personally benefited from creative activities for their health) can help others in the community access similar opportunities.  

By working with organisations such as darts, Cast, and Heritage Doncaster, these Ambassadors help break down barriers, raise awareness, and make creative health more accessible, especially for those who are often overlooked.  

The model builds on the successful Sheffield Recovery Ambassadors programme, showing how Ambassadors can support stretched services, offer tailored guidance, and open up new pathways to volunteering and employment. The report outlines practical steps for putting this model into action, with an aim of creating more connection across Doncaster.