Alongside Orchestras Live, the ABO has urged ACE to bring even greater focus and prominence to its recognition of the work and recommendations put forward by the Orchestras in Healthcare (OiH) report, and has welcomed the commitments in the ACE delivery plan which build upon the recommendations made in the OiH report, including:

• The creation of better known and more navigable networks for orchestras, health and social care partners to collaborate on shared programmes.
• Using research partnerships and data to provide an evidence base that increases the likelihood of investment from the health sector, as 96% of orchestras work in health and wellbeing settings is self-funded.
• ACE’s focus on skills development, supporting best practice through networks, and the wellbeing and health needs of practitioners.
• ACE’s clear recognition of the role of music and creative activity to alleviate post-pandemic issues around mental health, loneliness and isolation, with a focus on young people and potential for new work in related settings.

ACE’s Creative Health and Wellbeing delivery plan is an opportunity to connect meaningfully with organisations in the orchestral sector, to work together to ensure that this work continues to grow in impact and reach.